By Brenda Flanagan
Correspondent
“We should make it absolutely clear that we want a deal but we want the right deal,” said Sen. Bob Menendez.
To the delight of a supportive audience at Seton Hall and to no one’s surprise anywhere, Menendez announced he will vote against the proposed Iran nuclear deal — one that offers to roll back financial sanctions against the rogue Middle East state in exchange for assurances it would disable its nuclear enrichment program.
“So, what do we get? We get an alarm bell should they decide to violate their commitments and a system for inspections to verify their compliance,” said Menendez. “My overarching concern is that it requires no dismantling of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and only mothballs that infrastructure for 10 years.”
Menendez claimed the deal would release $150 billion in frozen assets to boost Iran’s economy. Remove economic sanctions and lift an arms embargo leaving Iran.
“Flush with money, not only to invest in their domestic economy but to further pursue their destabilizing, hegemonic goals in the region. Frankly, in my view the overall sanctions relief being provided. Leaves us in a weak position. And to me, that is unacceptable,” said Menendez. “And I believe we could still get a better deal. And here’s how.”
Menendez proposed re-negotiating a new 20 year deal with Iran that would require access to suspect sites, a ban on centrifuge R&D, closure of an enrichment facility and clear penalties for violations. Many in the crowd here liked what it heard.
“I’m hopeful the president will recognize Sen. Menendez’s comments for what they are and embrace his counter-proposal,” Asemblyman Gary Schaer.
But Menendez’s suggested tweaks are unlikely to get President Obama’s benediction. In the face of monolithic Republican opposition, the White House has lobbied hard to win Democratic support on Capitol Hill. It’s promoted letters from scientists and military leaders praising the deal — as the only alternative to war. But New Jersey’s other Senator still hasn’t made up his mind, saying he wants to hear all the angles and has engaged in conversations with New Jerseyans.
“I spoke with him about two weeks ago, his office is studying this very, very well,” said Ben Chouake.
Chouake’s with Norpac — a major contributor to Booker’s Senate campaign. He says, political pressure from both sides, particularly from pro-Israeli lobbyists is intense and growing.
“People want to weigh in. They say this is too important to be on the sidelines,” said Chouake.
If Congress votes to condemn the Iran deal, President Obama promises a veto. He’ll need 34 Senate votes to stave off an override. Menendez won’t be one of them.
Political analysts expected Menendez to turn thumbs down on the Iran deal. Now pressure will mount on Booker and other undecided Democrats as this issue moves to a vote next month.