29 Mar 2024
Iran’s regime has maintained its careful position over the July 14 nuclear deal with the 5+1 Powers, with the head of judiciary pointing to its “achievements” but also indicating that Tehran would make no further concessions over “restrictions”.

In an address in Tehran, Sadegh Larijani called for a “fair and realistic” evaluation of the deal, as it is formally considered by Parliament. He said that a “fair assessment” would recognize that Iran had obtained recognition of its right to a nuclear program because of “the heroic and unswerving support” of the Supreme Leader for the negotiations.

However, Larijani also said Iran “had conceded heavy restrictions” in areas such as the number of centrifuges for uranium enrichment and the scope of research and development. He said “concerns over possible damage” should be addressed and specifically pointed to more negotiations over the extent of inspections:

Some security holes are matters of concern. The deal in its present form should not give access to security and military sites and centers. Any laxity in dealing this hole is far from being pardoned.

Larijani’s statement points to further negotiations, notably with the International Atomic Energy Agency over the arrangements for inspections of non-nuclear sites, such as the Parchin military base, suspected of involvement in a militarized nuclear program.

The nuclear deal provides for “managed inspections”, with a “dispute resolution committee” in which Iran and the 5+1 (US, Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and China) carrying out a 24-day review of any objections by Tehran to IAEA access.

Meanwhile, the IAEA and Iran will be holding discussions over implementation of the agreement, with relief of US and European Union sanctions contingent of IAEA verification of Iranian compliance.

The IAEA has said that it hopes to provide that verification by December.



Diplomatic Tension Escalates With Bahrain
Iran’s diplomatic fight with Bahrain escalated on Sunday, as the Foreign Ministry declared that the kingdom is using “baseless accusations” to create tensions in the region.

Spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham responded to Bahraini claims that Iran is meddling in its internal affairs, “Such unconstructive methods will not disrupt Iran’s serious will and determination for continuity and persistence in a responsible…regional policy against threats such as extremism and terrorism.”

On Saturday, Bahrain recalled its ambassador from Tehran, alleging that Iran is supporting subversion.

The kingdom has faced protests over rights and reforms since February 2011. It has responded with mass detentions — including long prison terms and even life sentences for human rights activists — and force against demonstrations, with scores of people killed.

By EA WorldView
https://theiranproject.com/vdcjvtevtuqeaiz.92fu.html
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