Iran, West need to keep talking

It is important that Iran’s apparent rejection of the international community’s proposal on how to tackle the Iranian nuclear programme is not taken as the last word, and that diplomatic channels remain open to see how the two sides can find the essential common ground that must exist, even if it is well-hidden by the blasts of heated rhetoric at present.

The hopeful start to the talks between Iran and the international community as represented by the P5 + 1 (UN Security Council plus Germany) was based on a deal under which Iran would both stop its 20 per cent enrichment as a first step, and allow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections. From its side, the West would agree that Iran could enrich uranium, if only to the low percentages that peaceful needs require. And in addition, the West would offer Iran access to medical isotopes, cooperation on some nuclear safety issues, and spare parts for civilian airliners which would lessen the impact of the sanctions programme.

The world and the Gulf region needs an honourable solution to the impasse which has gripped the region for many years, and Iran and the US trading insults is no way to find an answer. It was significant that before the Baghdad meetings, IAEA chief Yukiya Amano said that an agreement with Iran over nuclear inspections was expected “quite soon”. His optimism was based on both sides shifting their positions before the talks started.

Iran is signalling that it wants to move to a position where a deal can be made. It is important that the IAEA and the P5+1 recognise this and engage with Iran. It would be madness for the international community to reject the possibility of a deal by refusing to negotiate, especially when there is a real possibility of success.