Congressman John B. Larson, who represents Connecticut’s first district, has announced his support for the Iran nuclear agreement. Larson who endorsed the agreement on July 31, will hold an open forum to discuss the reasons for his support and hear the concerns of constituents on Thursday, August 27 in West Hartford. He held a similar forum in West Hartford in mid-July, at an overwhelming majority of the more than 200 constituents present voiced their strong opposition to the agreement.

“Obviously this is a complex issue, and there is a significant amount of information to be debated and considered,” said Larson.

“Though there are risks involved no matter the course of action, I firmly believe this agreement is our best chance to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon,” he added. “I know some have expressed serious concerns about trusting Iran, but this deal is not about trust — it’s about verification. The information I received through the Congressional briefing process assures me that the United States has the scientific, economic, and military superiority to enforce this agreement, and it in no way limits our ability to continue to hold the regime accountable for a wider range of issues outside the scope of the agreement.  Should Iran attempt to violate the terms, we would have the support and approval of our allies abroad. On the other hand, rejecting this deal would leave Iran with little incentive to curb its nuclear program. It is very likely that the United States would once more face military operations in the Middle East. We have been down this road before, and we have seen where it leads. Too often that means putting the brave men and women who serve our country in harm’s way.”

The forum will be held on Thursday, August 27, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the Wilde Auditorium of the University of Hartford on Bloofield Ave. in West Hartford.