As President Obama has stated many times, the United States remains committed to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The strategy we have pursued -- and continue to pursue -- to fulfill this commitment and address the international community's concerns with Iran's nuclear program is the dual track policy of engagement and pressure. While our preference has always been diplomatic engagement, we concluded that such engagement would not work absent pressure.

In response, we and our allies, with the President's and your leadership, have established a robust sanctions regime. I would emphasize that it was the Iranian government's choices that led to these devastating sanctions, and it will be the Iranian government's actions in the months ahead that will be a key factor in determining whether we decide the sanctions should remain in place or whether we can begin to relieve some sanctions pressure as Iran addresses our concerns.

The pressure on Iran has been severe and may lay the groundwork for a diplomatic outcome that addresses our concerns. However, we remain clear-eyed about the challenges ahead and the importance of vigilance, while proceeding in good faith. Through our continued efforts and the work of the Congress -- notably through the leadership of the Chairman of this committee, with the support of the Ranking Member -- we have leveraged our economic influence effectively to raise the financial stakes for the Iranian government.