Disappointment with Iran Deal in Middle East; US Spins its Defense of the Pact

US Secretary of State John Kerry and Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu are not the only ones who differ over the deal signed by Iran and the Western powers regarding the Iranian nuclear development program. Western critics appear to agree with the Iranian assessment that Tehran walks away the winner, having received above-all recognition of its nuclear program; a significant abatement in sanctions prior to performance; and the ability to remain a hair’s breadth away from resuming its quest to create nuclear weapons. Ancillary damage in the form of harm to the US-Israel relationship is also being discussed in the Jewish state, where umbrage was taken at the American administration’s apparent withholding of details about the agreement while professing to keep Israel in the loop; and the loss of trust the entire matter is fomenting. When White House spokesman Josh Earnest said, “Consistent with our commitment to consult closely with our Israeli friends, the president told the prime minister that he wants the United States and Israel to begin consultations immediately regarding our effort to negotiate a comprehensive solution,” many expressed disbelief. While some in Israel accept the American argument that the deal maintains a barrier to Tehran completing the weapons process, most believe the Iranians walk away cost-free. In what Business Insider described as “broad bipartisan skepticism” in Washington over the deal, staunch Obama allies have been openly critical of the deal, including party leaders such as New York Senator Charles Schumer who expressed “disappointment” at Iran’s “disproportional” win; Democrat Bob Menendez of New Jersey who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; and Rep. Elliot Engel, the New York Democrat who is ranking member of the House Foreign Relations Committee.  Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird said his nation will keep all of its sanctions in place until there is a final deal and Iran has proven that it can be trusted. A Saudi official said that citizens of the Middle East will lose sleep over the Iranian deal.