The framework becomes clearer. The American authorities unveiled on Wednesday the text of the memorandum of understanding concluded with Iran, in which Tehran undertakes to reduce its stocks of enriched uranium. A key step, presented as decisive by Washington, while both camps want to accelerate towards an official signing planned in Switzerland on Friday.
Concretely, the text provides that the parties will discuss, within 60 days, a mechanism for dealing with Iranian stocks. The objective is clear: to frame their reduction under international supervision in a compromise considered strategic by the United States which sees it as a strong signal from Tehran.
Dilution of uranium and international supervision
According to a senior American official, discussions will focus on a solution “using, at a minimum, an on-site dilution method under the supervision of the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency).” A formula which aims to reassure control of the Iranian nuclear program. Washington insists on the importance of this commitment. “Their acceptance of this is a major, really major, victory for the United States of America,” the official said. He sees this as concrete progress towards the management of sensitive stocks.
The same manager specifies, however, that this framework remains a basis for negotiation. “They say that we are going to destroy the stocks of enriched uranium, and here is how we are going to go about it, at a minimum,” he explains, giving his interpretation of the text. In other words, everything remains to be finalized. A two-month phase of discussions must now begin to specify the technical and political terms of this agreement. A decisive process to avoid any relapse of tensions.
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Economic carrot and lifting of sanctions
At the same time, the United States is opening the door to an important economic aspect. The text mentions the establishment of a plan of at least 300 billion dollars dedicated to the reconstruction and development of Iran, in the event of a final agreement on nuclear power. “The United States is committed, with its regional partners, to developing a definitive plan, mutually agreed, amounting to at least $300 billion,” said the American official. But Washington remains cautious about its direct involvement.
The American authorities are keen to clarify their financial position. “Note that this in no way obliges us to pay even a cent to the Iranians, nor to contribute financially to this reconstruction fund,” insists the official. On the other hand, a relaxation of sanctions is well considered. “What this means is that if we reach a final agreement and if the Iranians comply with their commitments, we will authorize the easing of sanctions,” he detailed, referring in particular to possible economic projects.
A calendar already in progress
As soon as the agreement is signed, expected this week, Iran could resume its oil exports. The sanctions would then be gradually lifted if a complete agreement is reached at the end of 60 days of negotiations. This agreement aims to put an end to a regional conflict which has caused thousands of deaths since February, mainly in Iran and Lebanon. Next expected step: the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a major issue for global oil transport.
