Susan Rice Delivers Tough Love To Aipac About Iranian Nuclear Negotiations

WASHINGTON -- Susan Rice, President Barack Obama's national security adviser, buttered up the thousands of American Israel Public Affairs Committee policy conference delegates here Monday evening with Hebrew phrases and warm anecdotes about her visits to Israel. Then she brought on the tough talk, telling AIPAC delegates that their lobbying activities threaten to blow up ongoing negotiations to limit Iran's nuclear program. "We cannot let an unachievable ideal stand in the way of a good deal," Rice said. After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a controversial address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, AIPAC will ask members to support two pieces of legislation -- one triggering new Iran sanctions in the event a nuclear deal can't be reached, the other mandating congressional review if a deal is signed. Delegates gave Rice a standing ovation when she said, "I know that some of you will be urging Congress to insist that Iran forego its domestic enrichment entirely." But she cut off the applause, saying that barring Iran from developing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes is not "a viable negotiating position." "As desirable as that would be, it is neither realistic nor achievable," Rice said. The crowd cheered again when Rice said, "I know some may argue that we must impose sanctions and walk away. "But, my friends, let’s remember that sanctions, unfortunately, have never stopped Iran from advancing its program," she said. "Here’s what’s likely to happen without a deal: Iran will install and operate advanced centrifuges," Rice continued.