Iran Nuclear Deal: Temporary Relief - and Next Steps Needed
Geneva Accords on Iran, provisional and fragile, is a step in a right direction, writes Security Index Editor-in-Chief Vladimir Orlov. — Our journal, as well as PIR Center, already three years ago provided policy recommendations very close to the compromise achieved in Geneva in November 2013. Moreover, in March 2013, in Venice, we, together with our U.S. partners and colleagues from the Middle East, formulated a detailed, step-by-step, plan on Iran nuclear program which proposed a set of accords, both multilateral and bilateral (Iran-U.S.). We have always insisted that only diplomatic solutions can work, and that diplomatic solutions are doable — something criticized by many of our American and European colleagues just a few months ago. So, there are numerous reasons for us to be happy about the Geneva Accords. But to get relaxed? — No way. There are still too many questions remain not answered, and this is just a beginning of a long road. November success should not bring an illusion of sustainable progress. However, if United States and Russia continue and strengthen their leadership on the Iran issue, chances for a long-lasting, efficient solution which would reduce regional and global tensions are there, believes Orlov.