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Q    And can I ask a question on the Iran -- on the negotiations with Iran on the nuclear issue?  Is it the White House’s belief that if you can reach an agreement with the Iranians that those sanctions can be lifted without congressional approval?  Can further sanctions be lifted?  Obviously there are some steps which you’re able to do without congressional approval, but can you strike a deal with Iran and lift sanctions without Congress okaying it?
 
MR. CARNEY:  I haven’t seen that assessment made because it presupposes what is the only acceptable outcome to these negotiations, which is a verifiable, transparent agreement by Iran to forsake its nuclear weapons ambitions.  And the promise of that for Iran is that by coming into compliance with its international obligation, by offering in a way that is 100 percent reassuring to the P5-plus-1 and our international partners and allies that they will not pursue and cannot pursue a nuclear weapon, there will be an opportunity for Iran to end its isolated state that its violation of its international obligations has brought upon it.

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