Obama: I’m Focused on Solving Iran Problem, ‘I’m Not Focused on Theater’

BARACK OBAMA: "It is not whether Iran engages in destabilizing activities, everybody agrees with that. The central question is, how can we stop them from getting a nuclear weapon. And what we know is that if we're able to get a deal, not only do we cut off all of the various pathways for Iran getting a nuclear weapon, but we also know that we'll have a verification mechanism and an inspection mechanism where if they cheat and if they engage in a covert program, we are far more likely to see it in time to do something about it. What I also know is if we don't have a deal, as prime minister Netanyahu suggested, if, in fact, he's right and they are not trustworthy and they intend to pursue a covert program and they cheat, we'll be far less aware of it until it is potentially too late. What I also know is that he made the same argument before this current interim deal and even officials in his own government acknowledged that Iran has, in fact, maintained their end of the bargain. So, what I'm focused on right now is solving this problem. I'm not focused on the politics of it, I'm not focused on the theater of it. And my strong suggestion would be that members of Congress, as they evaluate it, stay similarly focused. All right. Thank you, guys. Appreciate it."