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White House releases technical details of Iran nuclear deal
The White House yesterday published a more detailed breakdown of the terms of the interim deal agreed between the P5+1 forum (US, UK, France, Russia, China and Germany) and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear development.
The two sides agreed the principles of a six-month deal in November and last week determined the technical implementation of the agreement. However, facing US Congressional demands for information, the White House yesterday published a nine-page document for lawmakers and a diluted version of the Joint Plan of Action for public release. The White House said that “For the sake of our national security and the peace and security of the world,” diplomacy with Iran must be given a chance.
The details reveal that a joint commission of P5+1, European Union and Iran experts will meet at least monthly to assess reports by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors whether the terms of the agreement are being adhered to. Iranian enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow will for the first time be subject to daily inspections by the IAEA via surveillance information. Iran will also be required to dilute half of its 20 per cent enriched uranium stockpiles, considered just a small step from weapons grade material.
Restricted Iranian funds worth £275-337million will be released incrementally over the six-month period in eight instalments, with a final amount of £2.5billion to be handed over to Iran only on the day before the deal expires. Although the White House document says “The United States will determine with our P5+1 partners our approach to the comprehensive solution,” the negotiation process for a permanent agreement remains unclear. Opponents of the deal will also be concerned that Iran is not required to dismantle any centrifuges and is permitted to continue centrifuge research and development.
Following a briefing for lawmakers by Wendy Sherman, the State Department’s lead Iran negotiator, Senator Lindsey Graham who has prominently opposed the interim deal commented, “I’m more disturbed than ever after the briefing.”