We can’t rely on wild- eyed hope

We all aspire for a diplomatic resolution resulting in a peaceful and verifiable termination of Iran’s nuclear weapons program.

The stated will of the global community, expressed in multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions, includes requirements for Iran to cease its enrichment activities, limit its capabilities to

Tougher sanctions give Iran more incentive to dismantle

those consistent with a peaceful nuclear program, and fully open up all sites to international inspections.

This is the international position, a view the United States Congress shares. But we cannot substitute wild- eyed hope for clear- eyed pragmatism given Iran’s record of deception.

A so- called Iranian charm offensive is simultaneously matched by an actual offensive to cross the nuclear weapons threshold.

It is incompatible for Iran to pursue true diplomacy while installing any new centrifuges, including advanced centrifuge technology, and developing a heavy water reactor in Arak in defiance of the international community, most vocally this weekend by France.

Today, Iran has reluctantly arrived at the negotiating table because of tough sanctions imposed by the international community and the U. S. Congress — the same sanctions that critics long opposed.

Iran is on the ropes because of its intransigent policies and our collective will, and it would be imprudent to want an agreement more than the Iranians do.

Tougher sanctions will serve as an incentive for Iran to verifiably dismantle its nuclear weapons program. When Iran complies, sanctions can be unwound and economic relief will follow.

This approach is in concert with our diplomatic efforts and consistent with previous actions taken by the international community. It’s a necessary insurance policy, too. Should Iran fail to negotiate in good faith or abide by any agreement, the penalties will be severe.

The P5+ 1 powers ( U. S., Russia, China, United Kingdom, France and Germany) are appropriately pursuing a diplomatic course, which Congress supports. But Congress is also appropriately pursuing sanctions that the P5+ 1 powers have long supported, letting the Iranians know what awaits if it continues its to- date unabated pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability.

This approach is consistent with past practice for all nations seeking a peaceful outcome to the Iranian question.