The Vatican reiterated its support for the Iran nuclear deal this week, just days before Pope Francis’ scheduled visit to the United States.
In a statement given to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Monday, the Secretary for Relations with the States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said the Vatican “values positively” the Iran nuclear deal because “it considers that the way to resolve disputes and difficulties should always be that of dialogue and negotiation.”
“The Holy See welcomes the IAEA’s participation in the verification and monitoring of Iran’s nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action,” said Gallagher, who is the Catholic Church’s equivalent of a foreign minister.
The Vatican has said previously that it views the Iran deal in “a positive light,” but Gallagher’s comments give a more in-depth view on the church’s perspective. The comments may also be a preview of what Pope Francis may say when he delivers speech to a joint session of Congress next week when he visits Washington, D.C.
Republicans have opposed the deal, in particular over fears that the IAEA hasn’t agreed to strong language requiring strict inspection of Iran’s nuclear facilities. Press reports last month said the IAEA would let Iran use its own staff for some inspections, a claim the IAEA has refuted.
Though all Republicans have declared their opposition to the Iran deal, they, along with Democrats, have pledged to avoid displays of partisanship during the Pope’s three-day visit to the nation’s capital.
