Issues Under Fire: Iran: Big Deal, Bad Deal or No Deal, Remove the Sanctions

Issues Under Fire: Iran: Big Deal, Bad Deal or No Deal, Remove the Sanctions 

With Iranian hard liners as willing to bolt from an unacceptable deal as readily as Israel will bolt from a "bad deal", the probability of an agreement this day is nearly nil. As far as the Iranians are concerned, they have the right to develop a peaceful nuclear program to meet the needs of the Iranian people without interference or limitations from foreign entities. This is a matter of national pride and a matter of national sovereignty. As far as Iran is concerned, these matters are not negotiable. 

As far as the Iranians are concerned, they've given their word they're not seeking to weaponize their nuclear program and they've given as much access to their facilities as the West is ever going to get. As far as Iran is concerned, they've met the West more than half way and will go no further. As far as Iran is concerned, its time for the the West to remove the crippling international sanctions so Iran can kick start its economy and rejoin the international community. Thats the deal. No more and no less.  

On the other hand, while the so-called P5+1 and the rest of the sane world would accept Iran's current levels of nuclear capabilities and development, the Israelis are demanding a zero sum outcome. As far as Israel is concerned, they'll never accept Iran's word for anything. As far as Israel is concerned, they're refusing to accept anything less than the complete dismantling of every nuclear program Iran has or will ever dream of having. 

As far as the Israelis are concerned, any nuclear materials Iran needs now or in the future, will be provided by Israeli approved sources. As far as Israel is concerned, Iran would remain compliant with any and all intrusive and unannounced inspections and continuous monitoring by the international community. As far as Israel is concerned, Iran should get no relief from international economic sanctions, until Israel has been satisfied that its security has been guaranteed. Thats the deal. No more and no less. 

Since its impossible to talk Benjamin Netanyahu down from his irrational perch, the deal for a peaceful resolution will remain elusive for the time being. The Israelis will bitch, complain and threaten unilateral military action, but thats all it will amount to; bitching, complaining and threats. Benjamin Netanyahu will never convince war weary Americans or a reluctant Europe to open up another front of fighting in that region of the world.  

Bottom line: With Israel bleeding support and credibility after attacking Gaza this summer and announcing new settlements, while stoking the flames of another intifada in East Jerusalem, most of the international community will have no part in or appetite for attacking Iran any time soon.

As for Iran bucking under fears of a more conservative U.S. Congress taking power next year, don't count on it. So relax, another six month extension is bound to be announced, if only to help Israel save face. Podcast Below!