Senator Bob Corker will preside over two hearings this week in preparation for a possible nuclear agreement with Iran.
On Wednesday, the committee will examine what the U.S.
has learned from previous diplomacy to prevent the proliferation of nuclear technology and weapons of mass destruction, including negotiations with North Korea. On Thursday, the committee will evaluate the key components of a final deal with Iran and what terms are necessary to stop Tehran from development of a nuclear weapon. As the P5+1 nations and Iran attempt to meet a June 30 deadline for an agreement, the committee is holding a series of briefings and hearings this month to prepare members for congressional review of a final deal if one is reached.
The Iran Nuclear Agreement review of 2015, which was coauthored by Senator Corker and became law on May 22, restricts the president’s ability to waive congressional sanctions on Iran while Congress decides whether to approve or disapprove a final agreement. The initial 30-day review period does not begin until all documents associated with an agreement are submitted to Congress along with assessments on compliance and non-proliferation. If a deal is not received before July 10, Congress will have 60 days for the initial review. Twelve additional days are provided if the House and Senate send a joint resolution to the president, and 10 more days are allowed for Congress to override a presidential veto.
Both hearings are scheduled to be webcast live here.