U.S. officials have expressed cautious optimism that a deal may be reached that protects U.S. interests.  However, some in Washington seem determined to undermine the diplomatic process.

Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) introduced legislation on October 15 that, among other things, would authorize the president of the United States to use military force against Iran.  During the past several weeks, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) has mentioned his plans to introduce a similar bill in the U.S. Senate.

While Franks' legislation is called the "United States-Iran Nuclear Negotiations Act," its most important purpose is not to promote diplomacy but to authorize the use of force against Iran.  Although it doesn’t explicitly define itself as an authorization bill, its language effectively makes it one.  The headline of Franks’ own press release indicating his intention to introduce the bill read: “Franks Calls for Authorization of Military Force in Iran.”