U.K. Ambassador to Israel, Simon Walters, stated that the E3 set a June deadline for Iran nuclear negotiations to enable snapback sanctions if needed. Walters indicated significant violations by Iran and the desire from both sides to negotiate. Former U.S. Ambassador Dan Shapiro warned of a military decision point this fall, emphasizing the need for credible military threats to foster diplomatic engagement.
U.K. Ambassador to Israel, Simon Walters, announced a June deadline set by the U.K., Germany, and France (E3) for a new Iran nuclear deal. This timeline is intended to prepare for possible snapback sanctions on Iran should it fail to agree to terms for abandoning its nuclear program. Walters emphasized that Iran’s current violations of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) present a significant chance for renewed negotiations amidst indications from Iran’s leadership of a desire to restart discussions.
During remarks at the Institute for National Security Studies conference in Tel Aviv, Walters noted that while Iran is in “total breach” of its commitments under the JCPOA, the ongoing situation allows for a new agreement. He warned, however, that the E3 is aware of Iran’s tendency to prolong negotiations. The firm deadline of the end of June was articulated to motivate a resolution before the expiration of the snapback mechanism in October, which would allow the reapplication of sanctions by all U.N. member states if necessary.
Walters reiterated that negotiations would not focus on amending the existing JCPOA but would aim for an entirely new agreement aimed at ensuring Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. He stated, “When the situation changes, you change your approach,” highlighting the need for a solution that provides long-term assurance against nuclear proliferation.
Dan Shapiro, the former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, indicated that crucial decisions regarding military action against Iran might emerge by this fall, particularly if Iran deviates from the Non-Proliferation Treaty. He noted, “Iran is at its weakest point in decades, largely due to actions taken by the Israeli military against Hamas and Hezbollah.”
Shapiro remarked that the prospects for a diplomatic resolution are dim, emphasizing that Tehran would only engage in negotiations if it perceives a credible military threat. He suggested that enhancing military cooperation with Israel, including joint exercises, could provide this credibility and pressure Tehran into a more favorable negotiation position. Furthermore, he cautioned that Israel would struggle to conduct a unilateral military attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities due to logistical challenges and necessary U.S. support.
The article underscores the urgency of the upcoming June deadline set by the E3 for negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. It highlights the potential for reapplying sanctions if talks fail and outlines the geopolitical dynamics influencing these negotiations. Both U.K. officials and former U.S. representatives express skepticism about the likelihood of a diplomatic resolution unless there is credible military pressure on Iran. The emphasis on military readiness further complicates the strategic landscape surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Original Source: jewishinsider.com
