WASHINGTON
The White House on Friday expressed confidence that it has enough congressional support to sustain a presidential veto if lawmakers reject an Iran nuclear deal.
More than 30 members in the House of Representatives back the deal, according to White House spokesman Josh Earnest, who said 30 senators had already voiced public support for the agreement.
"We continue to have confidence that we will be able to succeed in building the support that we need to sustain a presidential veto, if that becomes necessary," Earnest said.
"That's an indication to us that support in Congress is actually growing, and we certainly are pleased about that."
Earnest said Thursday that “26 or 27” senators had voiced support for the agreement.
Speaking to two Jewish organization on Friday via webcast, President Barack Obama reiterated that the deal is the most effective way to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon and that military intervention was the only available option left if the Congress rejects the deal.
He also pledged support of Israel and emphasized that tensions in the region directed at Israel would rapidly decrease if the Iran accord is fully implemented.
"We are all pro-Israel, we are a family," said Obama.
The president has previously said that while he welcomes a “robust” debate about the agreement, he will veto any legislation that undermines the accord.
He needs the support of 34 of the 100 senators to maintain his veto power and protect the deal.
Congress requires a two-thirds majority vote in the House and Senate to override a presidential veto.
Lawmakers have until Sept. 17 to endorse or reject the agreement signed last month between Tehran and world powers.
The agreement provides Tehran with sanctions relief in return for unprecedented curbs and inspections on its nuclear program.
