Thursday, September 19, 2013

Is Iran Serious About Entering Into Nuclear Negotiations?

Iranian president Hassan Rohani Photo by Reuters

Is Iran Ready To Deal On Nukes? -- Terri S. Lodge and Matthew Wallin, Special to CNN

(CNN) -- As the toll of international sanctions on Iran continues to mount, Iran's new President Hassan Rouhani has signaled his government's interest in addressing the world's concerns over his nation's nuclear program, and easing the pain on the Iranian economy. Rouhani's recent statements, tweets and appointments have underscored a possible willingness to resolve the nuclear problem. He told NBC News Wednesday that Iran will never develop nuclear weapons.

At the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York next week, Rouhani is expected to affirm his interest in resolving the issue.

In another positive step, President Barack Obama and Rouhani have exchanged letters—the first direct communication at this level between the two countries in many, many years. Explaining that this does not yet mean there is a breakthrough, President Obama indicated that he expects negotiations to be difficult and take time.

Read more ....

More News And Commentary On Iran's Intentions On It's Nuclear Program

Rouhani Says Iran Willing to Forswear Nuclear Arms -- Voice of America
Hailing "flexibility", Iran leader commends new nuclear gambit -- Reuters
Rohani Display of Moderation Draws Praise Amid Questions -- Bloomberg Businessweek
Hopes are high for Iran's 'diplomatic sheikh' on eve of UN visit -- Scott Peterson, Christian Science Monitor
Iran’s Leaders Signal Effort at New Thaw -- Thomas Erdbrink, New York Times
Analysis || Rohani's correspondence with Obama signifies winds of change in Iran -- Zvi Bar'el, Haaretz

My Comment: Not everyone is buying this change in tone from the Iranian leadership .... Israel accuses Iran of deception to buy time for atom work -- Reuters

Update: Michael Rubin comments on why one should not trust Iranian pledges.

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