>> we think iran should have sanctioned remove. s question be in what period of time and how quickly. >> reporter: russia has already lifted a ban on the sale of a sophisticated air defense system to iran. a russian weapon that could shield iran's nuclear facilities from future air strikes. >> this also jet aircraft armored tanks armored personnel carriers artilleries, trucks these are the kind of weapons that could fuel a middle east arms race. >> and tehran may soon have a lot more money in its pockets. >> there's no question that if you lift these embargoes now and at the same time are giving iran access to some of the its frozen billions of dollars iran will be able to accelerate its missile program. >> the current joint chiefs chairman leaves no question where he stands.