Iran Envoy Leaves As EU Says Time To Decide On Nuclear Talks

Iran, which was one the United States’ closest allies in the Middle East, has, since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, been at loggerheads with the West. The main point of contention between the two sides has been the Iranian nuclear program, which was initially kickstarted by the Americans, but has continued under the regime of Khomeini. NATO and its allies have since been concerned about Iran’s usage of its nuclear weapons and technology, fearing the possibility of an all-out nuclear war, which would undoubtedly lead to mutual destruction.

Therefore, under the Obama Administration, talks between the superpowers and Iran began, which eventually resulted in the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action). Under the “Iran nuclear deal,” Tehran agreed to give up some of its enriched uranium, which was triumphed in particular by the West, but also by China and Russia, who also had a part in the negotiations. However, under President Trump, the United States pulled out of the deal, as he believed that his government would be able to finalize a better deal. This never came to fruition, and official discussions have continued.

However, in recent weeks, there have been reports that the sides were reaching an agreement in Vienna during the eighth round of talks, but some “important components” still had to be decided, according to White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki. Still both sides, notably the Iranian negotiator, have commented that there was “relatively satisfactory progress” being made at the talks.

The possibility of a renewed JCPOA signed by the UN Security Council permanent members — China, Russia, the U.K., the U.S. and France — as well as Germany and Iran, represents a huge opportunity for peace in the Middle East, and in the broader global context. Stability in the Middle East has been turbulent in recent years, but this agreement could bring us back closer to normalcy.

Still, the departure of the Iran envoy from Vienna could be a sign that disagreements from all countries have arisen. This may be attributed to the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, which may have sparked discontent from all parties, and hence a halt to the talks. The Organization for World Peace condemns all acts of war and aggression, and hopes that peace will be restored in the country of Ukraine. In addition, we must hold on to hope that negotiations in the Austrian capital will continue, and that a joint agreement between all the parties will be reached soon.

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