Is the agreement between Iran and the United States close to being signed?
Adam Saud, professor at Bahria University in Pakistan, said in an interview with Sputnik News that the draft terms published by Iranian media indicate "substantial progress" in negotiations, but a "comprehensive package" remains out of reach.
Saud pointed out that although both sides believe they hold leverage, "the United States now seems eager to open energy supply routes while reducing the risk of military escalation." He added that the U.S. government also seeks "to showcase a major diplomatic achievement to appease domestic audiences and global allies."
On the other hand, Iran "mainly relies on the lifting of internal sanctions, access to its frozen assets, guarantees for Iranian sovereignty and security, and protection of its civilian nuclear program."
U.S. President Donald Trump denied reports by Iranian media regarding the terms of the agreement.
Saud did not rule out the worst-case scenario of failing to reach a comprehensive agreement in the foreseeable future. However, the analyst expects that, given the severity of the impending crisis, the Trump administration and Iran will at least reach a temporary or limited agreement.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on social media: "The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been so close to being finalized," adding that "all details will be disclosed in due time."
Source: sputniknews
Original: toutiao.com/article/1867812979027968/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.