[link removed] [[link removed]]
John,
My name is John Limbert. I served for thirty-four years as a U.S. diplomat, including as Ambassador and as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Iran. As an American, my connections to Iran reach back over sixty years and I have deep family and other roots there. I was also one of the Americans taken hostage in Tehran in 1979. I’ve written books about diplomacy with Iran and spent my life, often in the most difficult circumstances, seeking a better path - one that serves the interests of both Americans and Iranians - through mutual understanding and dialogue.
I joined NIAC’s Community Council because I believe our country is always better served by peace than by war , and that the voices of my Iranian-American friends and relatives should play a central role in shaping how we get there.
NIAC’s new poll with YouGov confirms that belief. A large majority of Iranian Americans support a new nuclear agreement with Iran - 62% in favor vs. 22% opposed [[link removed]] . Not because they are naïve about the appalling reality of the Islamic Republic or unaware of past failures, but because they understand that diplomacy offers the best chance to prevent war, protect human rights, and improve life for ordinary Iranians.
iranianamericanpoll.com [iranianamericanpoll.com]
Their support is not only for a new nuclear deal. When asked what would be the most successful way to address regional security [[link removed]] , the nuclear issue [[link removed]] , and even human rights [[link removed]] in Iran, Iranian Americans overwhelmingly say diplomacy, not war or sanctions, is the most effective approach.
There are dissenting views reflected in the poll, and that’s as it should be. Some of my own Iranian family members disagree with me. But what stands out is that, for those who support diplomacy, the reason is clear: a large majority say an agreement will improve the lives of ordinary Iranians [[link removed]] . This community cares deeply about the long-suffering people of Iran, not just the politics.
NIAC continues to be one of the most consistent voices in Washington pushing for a return to the negotiating table, even as others beat the drums of war. If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to read Iran Unfiltered [[link removed]] , NIAC’s weekly newsletter on developments in Tehran and Washington - an essential tool for staying informed in an era of spin and disinformation.
The data tells us what we already know: diplomacy isn’t just possible; it’s essential. And it’s what the large majority of Iranian Americans support.
SUPPORT THIS WORK [[link removed]] ​With respect,
Ambassador John Limbert (ret.)
NIAC Community Council Memberunsubscribe: [link removed]