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Iran-US Nuclear Discussions on Atomic Program Progress to Expert Level
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Dialogue between Iran and the United States concerning Tehran’s rapidly developing atomic program will transition Wednesday to the “expert level,” a move that analysts interpret as an indication of swift progress in the discussions.
Expert Level Talks: A Sign of Advancement, Not Imminent Deal
However, specialists not directly involved in the conversations cautioned in discussions with The Associated Press that this shift does not automatically imply an agreement is forthcoming. Instead, it suggests that the deliberations between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff have not faltered at what is understood to be the primary exchange: Tehran curbing its nuclear ambitions in return for the easing of financial penalties.
Significance of Technical Discussions
“Agreeing to engage in technical discussions implies both parties are articulating pragmatic, realistic goals for the negotiations and are willing to delve into the specifics,” stated Kelsey Davenport, director for nonproliferation policy at the Arms Control Association, a long-time observer of Iran’s nuclear program.
“Were Witkoff to present maximalist demands during his exchanges with Araghchi, such as the dismantling of the enrichment initiative, Iran would lack motivation to participate at the technical level.”
Potential Obstacles at the Expert Level
This technical stage, nonetheless, remains fraught with potential challenges. What degree of uranium enrichment by Iran would be acceptable to the United States? What stance will be taken on Tehran’s ballistic missile project, initially highlighted by President Donald Trump when the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018? Furthermore, the question remains: which sanctions might be revoked, and which will persist against the Islamic Republic?
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Political Commitment: Key to Successful Expert Talks
“The paramount factor determining the value of expert discussions rests on whether a political dedication to action exists, requiring experts merely to determine the modalities,” observed Richard Nephew, an adjunct fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Nephew, who previously focused on Iran sanctions at the U.S. State Department during negotiations for the 2015 nuclear agreement, added, “If experts are also tasked with debating fundamental concepts in the absence of political consensus, it may simply lead to unproductive efforts.”
Historical Context: Lessons from the 2015 Nuclear Agreement
Senior experts played a crucial role in the 2015 nuclear accord for both sides. Representing the U.S. under President Barack Obama, Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz established common ground with Ali Akbar Salehi, then head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. The technical expertise of both individuals proved essential in finalizing the details of the agreement.
Current Status of Iran’s Nuclear Program
Under the 2015 pact, Iran consented to enrich uranium only up to 3.67% purity and maintain a stockpile limited to 300 kilograms (661 pounds). Currently, Iran is enriching some uranium to levels as high as 60% purity — a minor technical progression from weapons-grade levels of 90%. The most recent report from the International Atomic Energy Agency indicated Iran’s total uranium stockpile in February was 8,294.4 kilograms (18,286 pounds).