Consider alternatives to deal with Iran

Now that a nuclear inspection deal has been made with Iran, let's take a look at some facts.

Many Republicans and Israel argue that this is a bad deal because it allows Iran to maintain its nuclear facilities, even though inspections will be allowed, and they urge that sanctions not only continue but be toughened. How has that worked out?

Iran's economy has suffered over the years because of existing sanctions, but, according to both the U.S. and Israel, weapon development has continued. Do we really believe that if we only toughen the sanctions that Iran will suddenly plead for mercy?

In North Korea, where the people literally eat tree bark to avoid starvation, the government of this country has built a formidable military force and has the potential to build nuclear weapons, even though there is a strict American embargo.

Some hard-right Republicans and Benjamin Netanyahu threaten to bomb the Iranian sites, which by all calculations, would slow the process by perhaps two years. Then what? And if by some calculation, we DID bomb these sites, do we really expect Iran to do nothing? They are a country of 80 million people, with a strong military force, which they would use to cause untold turmoil not only in the Middle East, but against the United States.

It is true that Iran has masterminded much of the trouble that now engulfs this region, but the hope is that this agreement will lead to others, and better relations down the road.

The vast majority of Iranians are under the age of 30 and admire the United States. American businesses are salivating at the possibility of opening up the Iranian market to their products.

Before we condemn this agreement, let us consider the alternatives, and the possible rewards by taking this chance for peace.

Dean Starr

Libertyville