Iran and Nuclear Agreement

"I have a profound responsibility to try to resolve our differences peacefully, rather than rush toward conflict," President Obama said at the White House after the agreement with Iran was reached in Geneva on Sunday, November 24. As early as in 2008 in his presidential campaign, Mr. Obama offered to negotiate with Iran. In his first inaugural address to the nation in 2009, he offered to extend his hand to Iran if Iran would "unclench their fist." After the Iranian President Ahmadinejad ignored his gesture, he galvanized global support for sanctions to force Iran into negotiations.

In the 2013 Iranian presidential election, Iranians surprised the world by electing Mr. Rouhani, who campaigned to work for improved international relations and a better economy. That gave President Obama an opportunity to fulfill his 2008 campaign promise to reach to Iran.

Iran and six world powers, following marathon negotiations in Geneva, reached an agreement for Iran to curb its nuclear program for the next six months in exchange for some sanctions relief and promise of no new sanctions while the agreement is in effect. Iran reaffirmed its long time position that it will not, under any circumstances, plan or develop any type of nuclear weapons.  

Like other peace initiatives, there are voices that prefer conflict to peaceful resolution in both countries. American extremists and foreign allies demand unachievable terms such as asking Iran for the complete shutdown of its uranium program. Iranian extremists persist that Iran has every right to pursue its nuclear program peacefully and develop sufficient grade of materials to support its scientific research, medical laboratories, and power plants. In light of such extremism, both President Obama and President Rouhani deserve support for their courage to opt for negotiation based on realistic goals.

Dr. Mehdi Alavi, President
Peace Worldwide Organization


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