WASSERMAN SCHULTZ STATEMENT ON H. RES. 148 CALLING ON THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN TO FULFILL ITS COMMITMENTS IN THE CASE OF ROBERT LEVINSON

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement tonight after H.Res. 148 passed the U.S. House of Representatives:

“Today, the House passed H.Res. 148, calling on the government of Iran to fulfill their previous promises of assistance in finding Robert Levinson, a South Florida native and the longest-held civilian American citizen. I was pleased to join my South Florida colleagues Ted Deutch, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Mario Diaz-Balart as an original cosponsor of this resolution; we must hold Iran’s leaders accountable to every commitment they make, particularly when American lives are on the line.

“As I mentioned directly to Secretary of State John Kerry last week, this month marks nine years of suffering and uncertainty for Bob’s family and friends. While I joined my colleagues and the nation in welcoming home four Americans who had also been detained in Iran earlier this year, I remain focused on ensuring Iran cooperates with ongoing efforts of the United States in Bob’s case.

“Last week, Iran’s citizens voted for a new Parliament and Assembly of Experts. I am under no illusions that this new parliament will produce significantly different policies from the government. However, I would urge these new legislators to heed the sentiments of this Resolution, and, as a meaningful humanitarian gesture regardless of any other longstanding serious disagreements, intensify cooperation with the United States.

“My heart continues to go out to Bob’s family and friends.”