Negotiating with Iran: The U.S., the EU, and the Future of the Nuclear Deal

In late February, Iran rejected an offer from the European Union to hold direct nuclear talks with the U.S.—part of the Biden administration’s goal to restore diplomatic relations and perhaps even revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, known in common parlance as the Iran Nuclear Deal. But, at the time, with no guarantee about U.S. sanctions relief, any hope for negotiations stalled.

The relationship between the US and Iran is complex at best. While both countries have signaled a willingness to return to the JCPOA on a "compliance for compliance" basis, neither seems willing to go first. Now, with Iran’s presidential election nearing in June and their escalation of nuclear activities, tensions are growing and the revival of the JCPOA seems to be teetering on an edge. Will the EU be able to help break the deadlock while the diplomatic window is still open?

Join the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia for a discussion about the future of Iran’s relationship with the West, and whether reinstating the nuclear deal is still on the table. About the Speakers Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, Founder & Published, Bourse & Bazaar Kelsey Davenport, Director for Nonproliferation Policy, Arms Control Association