It’s not the breakthrough they’d hoped for, but it’s something. Iran has promised U.N. inspectors wider access to two of its nuclear sites.
The two sides have signed off on what they're calling a “roadmap to cooperations” — essentially paving the way for access to Iran's Arak heavy water reactor and the Gachin uranium mine. (Via ITN)
Iran has always insisted it needs these facilities for peaceful nuclear energy uses — but the U.S. and its allies have long feared Tehran is seeking nuclear weapons. (Via ABC)
This development comes after separate diplomatic talks among the major world powers, including the U.S., ended Sunday without an agreement. (Via RT)
Any deal would have likely involved Iran scaling back some of its uranium enrichment and existing stockpiles in exchange from a reduction in tough international sanctions. (Via Jewish News One)
As for why the talks broke down, France had hinted the initial on the table didn’t go far enough to curb Iran’s nuclear program, though U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry told reporters it was Iran who was unwilling to budge. (Via BBC)
KERRY: "There was unity, but Iran couldn't take it at that particular moment."
The negotiators are scheduled to meet again for a new round of talks in less than two weeks.
