Conference Report on H.R. 2194, Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010

* Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for the conference report on H.R. 2194, the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010.

* Iran is a threat to regional security and stability. It has flouted international law and supplied weapons to terrorist groups throughout the Middle East.

* Upon taking office in 2009, President Barack Obama attempted to engage with Iran, including offering a deal which would have allowed Iran to receive nuclear fuel for peaceful purposes. However, Iran has spurned these good-faith efforts at engagement, and the time has come to put in place comprehensive sanctions.

* The international community supports our efforts to isolate Iran through sanctions. President Obama secured a landmark sanctions agreement at the United Nations Security Council several weeks ago. The European Union took further action earlier this month when it agreed to impose stringent sanctions on Iran.

* This bill goes even further than the UN and the EU--it is a comprehensive and stringent package of sanctions. Among many important provisions, it will prohibit investment in Iran's oil refining industry and create a legal framework for companies and investment managers who wish to divest from companies doing business with Iran. It will force many companies to answer a question--do I work with the U.S., or do I work with Iran?

* I urge my colleagues to join with me in passing H.R. 2194 and sending a clear message to Iran that their provocative actions and reckless pursuit of a nuclear weapon will not be tolerated.

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