Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), who served as speaker pro tempore during the U.S. House of Representatives’ pro forma session, issued a statement on April 9 after House Democrats were unsuccessful in passing an Iran war powers resolution by unanimous consent.
The issue is significant as it concerns ongoing efforts to address tensions with Iran and the pursuit of long-term regional stability, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Smith said, “With respect, instead of offering a motion precluded by House rules, Democrats should pivot and support the new ceasefire agreement, which represents significant, tangible progress towards a long-term resolution of this conflict—and above all, the requirement that Iran never possesses a nuclear weapon and the means to deploy it to a target.”
He added that for nearly five decades, Iran has threatened global security through violence and terrorism. Smith said the new ceasefire deal presents an important opportunity for the United States to secure an agreement with Iran that promotes stability and prevents nuclear proliferation. He said it is necessary “to allow the current ceasefire agreement to play out.” According to Smith, “As I have consistently argued over the past 10 years, Iran’s acquisition of a nuclear weapon was practically inevitable under President Obama’s Iran Nuclear Agreement. This was a deeply flawed agreement, which has largely contributed to the mass proliferation of Iranian missiles today—the same missiles that have rained down on our servicemembers and allies and taken countless lives.”
Smith also expressed hope for future negotiations: “I am hopeful that the United States and Iran will arrive at a fair, reasonable agreement during this ceasefire, shielding our children and grandchildren from the looming threat of Iran’s nuclear capabilities.”
Chris Smith is currently serving in Congress representing New Jersey’s 4th district; he began his tenure in 1981 after replacing Frank Thompson according to congressional records. He has represented New Jersey’s 4th District since then as reported by official sources. Born in Rahway in 1953 and now living in Manchester Township according to local news reports, Smith graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 according to alumni records.
