SRES 65: A resolution strongly supporting the full implementation of United States and international sanctions on Iran and urging the President to continue to strengthen enforcement of sanctions legislation.
Congress: 113 · Status: active · Israel/Palestine classification: pro-Israel
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(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the Senate on April 17, 2013. The summary of that version is repeated here.) States that Congress: reaffirms the long-standing bonds of friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel which enjoy bipartisan support in Congress and among the people of the United States; supports the close military, intelligence, and security cooperation that President Obama has pursued with Israel; condemns the statements and policies of the leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran threatening Israel's security and existence; recognizes the tremendous threat posed to the United States, the West, and Israel by Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability; reiterates that U.S. policy is to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon capability and to take necessary action to implement such policy; supports the full implementation of U.S. and international sanctions on Iran; declares that the United States has a vital national interest and commitment to ensuring Israel's existence and security; supports Israel's right to self-defense; and urges that if Israel is compelled to take military action in self-defense against Iran's nuclear weapons program the U.S. government should provide Israel with diplomatic, military, and economic support. States that nothing in this resolution shall be construed as an authorization for the use of force or a declaration of war.
Editorial Explainer
The Senate resolution reaffirms US support for Israel and endorses full implementation of sanctions against Iran's nuclear program. It states Congress recognizes Iran's nuclear weapons pursuit as a threat to the US, the West, and Israel, and commits to preventing Iranian nuclear capability. The resolution also pledges that if Israel takes military action against Iran's nuclear program, the US should provide diplomatic, military, and economic support.
Why it matters
This resolution signals congressional support for a hardline Iran policy closely aligned with Israeli security interests and establishes that military action by Israel against Iran would receive US backing. It carries no binding force but expresses the chamber's stance ahead of Iran negotiations and potential military escalation.