Jewish Federation of Cincinnati

Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC)

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati appreciates the efforts of the P5+1 group to reach a deal with Iran. We hope that the deal announced this morning will ensure that, in the words of President Obama, “every pathway to a nuclear weapon is cut off.”

While Iran has done little to deserve our trust, we have been supportive of a diplomatic solution, and appreciate Secretary Kerry’s tireless efforts to negotiate. It is incumbent upon all of us who value global peace and stability to do everything we can to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Concern regarding a nuclear-armed Iran is international in scope and not confined to Israel, even as the Iranian leadership’s threats of annihilation have been directed toward Israel. Obama has stated on numerous occasions that the U.S. is proud to be Israel’s “strongest ally.” Therefore, any threat to the national security of one is also a threat to the national security of the other. Both the Obama Administration and Congress recognize that Iran’s nuclear program is a grave threat to U.S. national security and the stability of the Middle East.

We are glad that the Congressional review process will allow time to analyze the deal. We plan to do the same on behalf of the Jewish community. After a thorough review of the proposed deal, we will release an additional statement on what has been proposed.

While we remain hopeful that today’s agreement will end the nuclear threat, history – and current threats by the Iranian regime calling for the destruction of Israel — dictates that we remain concerned and diligent. We know that there will be multiple responses emerging from various organizations, and we look forward to working with our partners on a collaborative response. We will share more in the coming days as the details become clearer.

Suzette Fisher, President,Jewish Federation of Cincinnati
Shep Englander, CEO, Jewish Federation of Cincinnati
Michelle Kohn, President, Jewish Community Relations Council
Sarah Weiss, Director, JCRC,Jewish Community Relations Council