U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL) released the following statement regarding the extension of negotiations over Iran's nuclear program:

"While the delay in negotiations relating to Iran's nuclear disarmament is disappointing, it is vital that the lead negotiators -- United States, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- continue to press for a diplomatic resolution to ensure that Iran fully commits to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions. A seven-month extension should not be an excuse for inaction.  Otherwise, additional economic sanctions will come up for discussion. All parties should re-engage again quickly. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is correct when he says that the 'talks are not going to get easier just because we extend them.' The context of a resolution will become more difficult, however, and will feed insecurity and instability that should be avoided."