The Next Steps With Iran

The US, the UK, France, Germany, Russia and China, also known as the Six, still await an answer from Iran on a proposed package that would curb nuclear development. Iran poses “twin challenges” that the Six can no longer avoid: Iran’s desire for nuclear weapons symbolizes its reach for modernity, while fostering a religious extremism that resists modernization. So far, the Six have not issued a united response to Iran’s refusal to negotiate. But according to former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, a deadlock would lead to “unchecked proliferation,” controlled by neither governing principles nor functioning institutions. Kissinger suggests that the Six create a global system of nuclear enrichment, with strict international controls, to prevent future proliferation. He also urges that the Six, in its negotiations, keep in mind that a strong yet peaceful Iran could become a source of stability in the region. This can only happen when Iran’s leaders decide what they represent – a cause or a nation. The goal of any negotiations with Iran should force its leaders to make this decision. – YaleGlobal