We are disappointed at the decision by the United States to lift sanctions on Iran. We believe it is premature to begin to normalize relations with a nation that has sponsored international terrorism, developed weapons of mass destruction, has shown continual hostility toward the State of Israel, and is about to try 13 innocent Jews on trumped-up charges of espionage.

Clearly, President Mohammad Khatami, and the success of reform minded-candidates in the recent parliamentary elections, have given rise to the hope that Iran is beginning to transform itself into a more open society that encourages free speech and democracy. However, we believe that in order for the United States to lift sanctions, Iran must first take concrete steps to assure the international community that it is committed to meaningful change. We have yet to see evidence of this change.