Programmes

Iran update: number 134

Summary

  • Iran and US delegations clash again at the NPT PrepCom
  • Tehran further clarifies its priorities in the upcoming negotiations with the E3+3; won't suspend enrichment; EU endorses proposed meetings between E3+3 and Iran
  • US Senate Foreign Relations Committee releases report on Iran; Congress introduces more proposals for sanctions
  • Gates tours Middle East to discuss negotiations with Arab allies
  • Iranian court releases Iranian-American journalist convicted of spying
  • Israeli military leaders say they have continued preparati

Iran update: number 133

Summary

  • Iran looks ready to accept invitation from P5+1, remains adamant about its right to continue its nuclear program
  • US announces that it will participate fully in P5+1 nuclear talks with Iran
  • Presidential candidate in Iran suggests that he may support verification measures
  • Officials from Obama administration reveal latest developments in Iran policy deliberations
  • Iran plans to launch another, more sophisticated satellite
  • Iran proclaims progress in its nuclear production capabilities, but analysts express skepticism

Maintaining focus in negotiations for a START successor

Russian President Dmitri Medvedev's recent announcement that Russia will be upgrading its military forces in the face of Western encroachment (among other reasons) underscores the tenuousness of US-Russian relations. Despite enthusiasm shown by both sides for strengthening ties under President Obama, Washington and Moscow have very different, often conflicting, strategic interests.

Iran update: number 132

Summary

  • The IAEA releases its latest report on Iran
  • US intelligence officials indicate that Tehran is far off from producing a nuclear weapon
  • Iran launches its first satellite into orbit and plans to expand its launch capabilities
  • Testing phase at the Bushehr reactor site begins
  • President Obama addresses Iranian government, calling for improved relations while expanding sanctions
  • Tehran responds with cautious optimism, but also frustration
  • Iran invited to international security conference on Afghanistan
  • US