Iran’s uranium enrichment program is a complicated subject, as is the subject of nuclear non-proliferation efforts in general. I find it nearly impossible to write about in a blog format. Yet, I support nuclear non-proliferation efforts, including crippling sanctions on Iran’s economy aimed at reaching a deal that will allow Iran to have a domestic nuclear energy industry but which also satisfies everyone that Iran will not be joining the club of nuclear-armed nations. If Iran is ready to have one-on-one talks with the American government after the election, then I consider that as evidence that the president’s policy has worked very well so far.
The idea is to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapons capability without having to resort to war, and to do it in a way that the international community believes in. That means that we need constant verification that Iran is complying with the agreement, but it also means that countries are satisfied that we’re not just trying to effect regime change or revolution in Teheran. It means that we recognize Iran’s right to have a nuclear power industry. And the principles we use must be applicable on a broad scale, not just for Iran. A successful nuclear policy vis-a-vis Iran should be part of a broader, international effort at nuclear disarmament, including in the USA, Russia, China, and Israel.
Within these broad outlines, the Obama administration has been successful without having any kind of breakthrough. Iran has never been so isolated, their currency is in free-fall, their best ally Syria is a mess, and now Iran wants to talk.
The United States and Iran have agreed in principle for the first time to one-on-one negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, according to Obama administration officials, setting the stage for what could be a last-ditch diplomatic effort to avert a military strike on Iran.
Of course, the foreign policy debate between Obama and Romney is on Monday, so this announcement is fortuitous and creates real problems for Romney in terms of what kind of tone he wants to take. The Iranians have agreed in principle to meet with Romney, too, should he win the election. Would he blow up that opportunity to score cheap points in a debate?
