In a letter written to the editor of the Washington Times, a reader wrote; there are several things to understand regarding the GOP letter to Iran’s leaders (“Ted Cruz: I’d sign Iran letter ’in large print’ so the Ayatollah wouldn’t need his glasses,” March 17).
First, it was not a secret communication, but rather an open letter to be read by Iran, world leaders, the White House and the American public more of a press release than a diplomatic communication.
Second, it was not a negotiating instrument, but an informational message designed to ensure that the Iranians understood the constitutional role of Congress especially in view of President Obama’s tendency to exceed his authority.
Third, it is not unprecedented as Democrats claim. To wit, in 2007 Democrats engaged in a series of secret talks with Syrian despot Bashar Assad.
The fact that Mr. Obama intends to have his personal agreement ratified by the United Nations while circumventing Congress reflects a dangerous left-wing global view that places international authority over American sovereignty. If the Senate Republicans have shed light on and possibly derailed a bad deal, they have done a great service to the United States and the civilized world.