Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on Nuclear Negotiations with Iran

Statement

"As the July 20th deadline between the P5+1 countries and Iran approaches, there is the possibility that an extension may be necessary in order to reach an agreement over Iran's nuclear program. Both sides have publicly cited progress in the ongoing talks, yet it is clear that differences remain between the parties involved.

"If the nuclear talks are to be extended, I would have a difficult time accepting this as progress because Iran continues to unjustly imprison my constituent, Amir Hekmati. Many of my colleagues I talk to continue to have deep distrust as well, including many of the 150 Members of Congress who have recently called on Iran to release Amir.

"Iran has repeatedly said it wants to rejoin the global community. Yet I cannot fathom how this is possible if they continue to hold American political prisoners like Amir under false pretenses. Breeding further discontent, Iran has a long history of imprisoning other Americans on false charges.

"Amir is an American citizen who has done nothing wrong, yet he continues to languish in an Iranian prison. Amir is innocent and has committed no crime, yet he has been held captive now for nearly three years. It's time for Amir to be released so he can be reunited with his family in Michigan to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan."

Congressman Dan Kildee represents the Hekmati family in Congress. He has been advocating for Amir's release and working with U.S. officials and the family to secure his release.

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