U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham believes that an Israeli strike on Iran could be the most likely way to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, according to an interview with "Jewish insiders." Graham stated that there are three pathways to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions, noting that "maximum pressure" sanctions make it more difficult for the Iranians. He explained that the only three ways to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions are: "changing the regime's doctrine," which is unlikely under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, internal regime overthrow, or an Israeli strike backed by the United States against Iranian nuclear facilities. He emphasized, "If you don't understand this, you are making a grave mistake." He stressed, "Iran's program will not end unless they acquire a nuclear weapon unless someone stops them. These are the three ways that could stop progress toward a nuclear weapon."
Graham clarified that the likelihood of the first option, changing the regime's doctrine, is one in a billion, and for the second option, overthrowing the regime, he said, "Who knows if the Iranian people want to continue living this way; it's up to them. But the third option, the Israeli strike, is 'the way this movie will end.'" He explained a plan to increase Congressional oversight of Iran's nuclear program. He stated that he requested Israeli officials during a previous visit to the country in February to provide a detailed list of red lines and main concerns related to Iran's nuclear program.
The senator mentioned that these discussions prompted him to draft legislation entitled the Iranian Nuclear Arms Control Act, which will likely require a report from the administration every 120 days regarding Iranian armament efforts, fissile materials, missile technology, nuclear weapons proliferation, international violations, and IAEA inspection regimes. The legislation would also require cooperation with U.S. allies. Graham stated that he directed the U.S. government "to consult with our allies to remain vigilant about the Iranian nuclear program," adding, "If we see troubling areas, the administration, whoever it may be, will need to come up with a plan of action. I believe this approach is the best insurance policy to ensure that the Iranian nuclear program doesn't spiral out of control." He noted that the legislation he is working on will be "essential" with or without a new Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Graham also addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and appeared to defend President Joe Biden's unusual remark made over the weekend, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin "cannot remain in power," which sparked a storm of international responses. Graham said, "If you are upset with Biden's call for Putin's departure, ask the French and everyone else: Are you willing, as part of a negotiated settlement, to provide security guarantees to Ukraine against future invasion by Russia?" He added, "If you are not willing to do this, I believe more wars are inevitable."
