Wednesday 18 November 2009

Harvard Report: "US should deal with the Iran allowing some enrichment in exchange for an Iranian commitment to safeguards against weaponization"


Link

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Report from the folks at the Belfer Center (JFK School at Harvard) via the RFI

"The report lays out the United States’ policy options with regard to Iran’s nuclear program, and makes a clear and concise case for why the United States must move beyond its insistence on “zero enrichment.” According to the report, “Zero enrichment is so unlikely it should not be the basis of policy.”

Instead, the “least bad” option for the United States is to reach a deal with the Islamic Republic that allows some enrichment in exchange for an Iranian commitment to safeguards against the weaponization of its nuclear program....

Outline of a Limited Compromise

Here is one example of what a compromise with Iran could look like:


  • The P5+1 agrees to allow some operational centrifuges in Iran.
  • Iran agrees to limit enrichment to 2-8 centrifuge cascades (other centrifuges in place, but not operating).
  • All centrifuge operations, R&D, manufacture (also other sensitive nuclear operations) are shifted to international ownership with a 24/7 international staff.
  • Iran agrees to the Additional Protocol and broad transparency measures.
  • The P5+1 implements an incentives package (trade, nuclear assistance, etc.).
  • Bilateral and multilateral dialogues are established to address other issues over time—including recognition and an end to sanctions if these other issues are successfully addressed.
  • The United States pledges not to attack Iran and not to attempt to overthrow the regime as long as (a) Iran complies with its nuclear obligations, (b) Iran does not commit or sponsor aggression or terrorist attacks against others.
Posted by G, Z, or B at 3:34 PM

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