Robert Hurt votes to enhance Iran sanctions

Congressman Robert Hurt (R-Virginia) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act, which would provide for enhanced Congressional oversight over United States economic and trade sanctions, particularly over Iranian terrorism financiers:

“Over six months ago, the world watched as the Obama Administration and the nations of China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United Kingdom reached a dangerous nuclear deal with Iran – an agreement that includes more than $100 billion of sanctions relief.  In December, Iran fired rockets into the Strait of Hormuz only 1,500 yards from United States Navy ships, giving them just minutes of warning.  Just last month, ten United States Navy sailors were taken into Iranian custody after they mistakenly entered Iranian waters.  We live in a dangerous world, and this Administration is far too trusting in those who seek power through aggression. 

“Though this Administration fails to stand up to the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, the House will continue to do everything within our power to protect our national security.  Issues of national security are too important to leave to idealism and wishful thinking.  Today, we passed the Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act to prevent the Administration from offering sanctions relief to any bank or individual unless we can prove with absolute certainty they do not support Iran’s terrorism, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Iran’s ballistic missile program, or even its conventional weapons program.  In the House, we remain committed to providing for our national defense – Congress’ greatest responsibility under Article One of the Constitution — and I urge our colleagues in the Senate and the President to join us in this vital effort.”