Iran and 1+5 Nuclear Negotiations Extended for Another Seven Months

On Tuesday, November 24, Philip Hammond, the British Foreign Secretary, announced the extension of the deadline for Iran and the 1+5 nuclear negotiations until the end of June 2015. This means that the deadline for reaching a final and comprehensive nuclear agreement and resolving the twelve-year dispute over Iran's nuclear program has been postponed by another seven months. According to Reuters, Mr. Hammond stated that Iran and the six countries made 'significant progress' in the latest round of nuclear negotiations. The Russian Foreign Minister also mentioned that 'significant progress' has been made in the negotiations between Iran and the 1+5. However, no report has yet been published regarding the details of these 'significant progresses.' Reuters reported that Iran will gain access to approximately $700 million of its frozen assets monthly until the end of June next year. IRNA reported that Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran, will 'speak to the people' on the evening of November 24 on Islamic Republic television. Iran and the 1+5 group, which includes the United States, Britain, France, Russia, China, and Germany, had set November 24 as the deadline for reaching a final and comprehensive nuclear agreement, but a final agreement was not achieved on this day. The scope and dimensions of Iran's uranium enrichment program, how to continue the activities of the Islamic Republic's nuclear facilities, and how to lift international sanctions against Iran are the main points of contention between the parties. A Western diplomatic source told AFP that global powers and Iran are likely to meet again in December at a location to be determined later. Reuters also reported that the goal of these negotiations is to reach a 'political agreement' by next March. Hannah Kavyani, a reporter for Radio Farda in Vienna, stated that upcoming negotiations will continue to seek a 'political agreement on the generalities.' The agency reported that Iran has reduced its stockpile of uranium gas. According to a confidential report from the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has taken further actions in accordance with the interim nuclear agreement. Based on this report, the Islamic Republic has reduced its stockpile of less enriched uranium gas. Philip Hammond stated that Iran is expected to continue refraining from sensitive nuclear activities.