Though Iran does not have a nuclear weapon it is important to remember where we were before these negotiations began. Israel was threatening to take military action because Iran was enriching uranium to higher levels. They are allowed, under the NPT, to have nuclear power - we helped them get that. There were lots of threats back and forth and it was very tense. These negotiations began to diffuse the situation and to find a diplomatic solution. As long as they have been negotiating there has been more transparency and a reduction in the enrichment. Though we have thousands of nuclear weapons, some of which are on high alert, many of our allies in the region surrounding Iran are protected under out military umbrella, including nuclear weapons. Our leaders have decided that we are the good guys and would never use nukes, though they often in response to questions about using military force, "every option is on the table". The sanctions which have been imposed on Iran for many years have hurt their economy, restricted the import of medicines and airplane parts. Their economy is hurting with high inflation and black market consumer goods selling at inflated prices. Those who oppose the deal insist that Iran is not to be trusted and this just delays their getting a weapon; this narrative fits their view of Iran by Bush as a terrorist country. They are said to support terrorist organizations around the world defending the lives of Muslims. We support armies and groups around the world to fight our supposed enemies , and we have been called supporters of terror in the same way by those 'enemies'. As a peace organization we always advocate for diplomacy over force and this deal is our best chance to normalize relations with Iran. Their people will be relieved of the harsh sanctions and commerce will resume - most likely to everyone's benefit. We will have access for inspections and if given the chance by the hawks, we could better our relations with them and work towards finding common goals, i.e. defeating ISIS. I encourage you to call Kennedy and Clark and Tsongas or whoever your Congressman is and ask them to support this deal. With Moulton and Warren on board I am hopeful that with our urging, the others will vote for diplomacy over the old tensions and threats of war.
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