The path to a new and imminent U.S.-Iran nuclear deal
Recent media reports suggest that the U.S. and Iran were finalising a deal on the release of American prisoners in Iran, and that the two could soon come to a fresh deal on the nuclear issue.
The path to a new and imminent U.S.-Iran nuclear deal
Recent media reports suggest that the U.S. and Iran were finalising a deal on the release of American prisoners in Iran, and that the two could soon come to a fresh deal on the nuclear issue.
Instead of reviving the 2015 agreement, the Supreme leader of Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei has sought a new one which would ensure that Iran's nuclear infrastructure remained in place; he affirmed that Iran would cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The United States has also long recognised that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in its original form could not be revived. Instead, it looked for a new arrangement that could address Iran's missile development and its role in the region, including support for terrorism.
Thus, the proposed agreement focuses on its uranium enrichment programme and its weapon stockpiles.
As per reports, this agreement would be informal and unwritten.
• Under it, Iran will freeze its nuclear enrichment at 60%; it will not attack U.S. military contractors in Syria and Iraq, will improve cooperation with IAEA inspectors, and will not provide ballistic missiles to Russia.
• In return, the U.S. has pledged to avoid new harsh sanctions on Iran, not to seize oil tankers in the Gulf waters, and not pursue anti-Iran resolutions in the U.N.
Another positive implication of the deal could be a possible end to region-wide conflagration arising out of nuclear aspirations of countries like Saudi Arabia.
For Iran, the deal will result in billions of dollars that it could use to ameliorate the dire living conditions of its citizens. Regionally, it will facilitate further improvement of Iran's ties with Saudi and perhaps normalisation of relations with Israel also.
• IAEA- Widely known as the world’s “Atoms for Peace and Development” organization within the United Nations. Set up in 1957.
• HQ- Vienna, Austria
• The Agency works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.