Saeed Mahmoudi: Extension of Iran Sanctions Law Could Violate JCPOA

The extension of the Iran sanctions law for another 10 years has fueled various disputes and interpretations regarding the practical implementation of the nuclear agreement or JCPOA. Iran considers this extension a violation of the JCPOA, while in the U.S., the extension of this law is assessed as unrelated to the JCPOA. Saeed Mahmoudi, a professor of international relations in Sweden, believes that there is a connection between this law and the JCPOA. He argues that during the extension of this law in 2006, which included the issue of Iran's nuclear program, it could conflict with the nuclear agreement and the JCPOA in two ways. According to Mr. Mahmoudi, the first point is that this law is now extended for 10 years, meaning it will be valid until 2026, and since the validity of this law exceeds the timeframe outlined in the JCPOA for lifting any sanctions against Iran, it is therefore in conflict with the JCPOA from this perspective. Mr. Mahmoudi also believes that, on the other hand, the U.S. claims this law is only related to the nuclear program of Iran, not issues related to Iran's oil and gas industry. This U.S. claim comes despite the fact that oil sanctions were lifted under the JCPOA, which is why American oil companies were prepared to enter Iran. Therefore, in this case as well, the extension of this law could be assessed as a violation of the JCPOA.