Critical Analysis

The latest developments, according to the experts.

They May Not Want the Bomb - and Other Unexpected Truths

Commonly held perceptions may be misleading, as evidence points to an Iran that is more interested in the ability to enrich uranium and acquire nuclear latency than in creating a nuclear weapon. Not only is a bomb un-Islamic, Zakaria argues, but achieving nuclear latency has many of the same benefits as a weapon. The international community should compromise through international regulation, as the rational Iranian leadership will choose the path that provides the best cost-benefit balance.

Magazine: Newsweek

Iraqis Blame Tehran for Their Country's Turmoil

Under Ahmadinejad, Iran became a sponsor of Shi'a military and political factions in Iraq, seen by many Iraqis as a major stimulator of their country's internal strife. With the Iranian election unrest of 2009, there was hope that Ahmadinejad's focus would shift away from Iran's foreign ventures. The election of a reformists government in Iran is seen as the only way to retract Iranian influence from Iraqi affairs.

Newspaper Article: Aljazeera English

Iran's 2009 Presidential Elections

International actors can take advantage of the electoral irregularities to ask for a new civil and political balance within the country. However, there may be little difference between Ahmadinejad and Musavi, according to Obama, and the national feeling among the Iranian people is still strong. Western countries have to be cautious in their efforts in order to not interfere with internal affairs while taking advantage of the weakening of the regime to pursue their own interests, that is to say the resolution of nuclear and terrorist issues.

Journal Article: Congressional research service

Iran: Statements by Israeli Leaders - Sept 2009

Iran is trying to obtain nuclear weapons making the regime a serious danger. Negotiations have not progressed and the regime is unpopular domestically. Israel has the right to defend itself, creating the possibility of force.

Government Report: Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Deterrence in the Israeli-Iranian Strategic Standoff

If Iran likely to acquires nuclear weapons, and it is likely to do so, an; attack against Israel would be the most plausible in response to threats from the US; Deterrence and missile defence are the best assurances of Israel's security.

Journal Article: Parameters

U.S. Foreign Policy toward Iran in the Obama Era

The Obama administration has raised the likelihood of rapprochement with Tehran through the direct engagement policy. Open communication is the most effective way to improve ties with Iran.

IO / NGO Report: Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation

UN Human Rights Chief Criticizes Latest Execution of Juvenile Offender in Iran

Navi Pillay, the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concerns regarding the death penalty charged onfor juveniles offenders in Iran. Iran is facing conflictnot complying with the ICCPR when prosecuting juveniles because they it are not in compliance with their regulations when prosecuting juveniles due to followsing the Islamic Shariah law. Pillay has articulateds the need to eliminate the violence that has occurred in Iran, clearly stating that under no circumstances should they resort to such extreme measures.

IO / NGO Report: International campaign for human rights in Iran

Iran Sanctions: Who Really Wins?

Proponents of sanctions misrepresent the Iranian economy. Sanctions could actually strengthen Ahmadinejad's popular support. U.S. recognition of Iran's regional development role is needed.

Op-Ed Piece: The Brookings institute

Country Reports on Terrorism 2008 Chapter 3 State Sponsors of Terrorism Iran

The US government dDescribes Iran as top state sponsor of terrorism. It hHighlights support given by a division of the Revolutionary Guards division (Qods Force) to terrorists throughout the Middle East. Iran must cease support for these groups before a normalization of bilateral relations can occur.

Government Report: United States Department of State

China's Ties With Iran Complicate Diplomacy

Iran-China economic relations aid Iran's nuclear ambitions. In At the UN Security Council, China opposes and dilutes American sanctions on Iran's nuclear program, threatening US foreign policy on in relation to Iran.

Newspaper Article: The New York Times

US-Iranian Engagement: The View from Tehran

Analysts in Tehran indicate that the Obama administration must carefully consider Iranian interests in engagement. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan provide the best start. But engagement threatens regime legitimacy as anti-U.S. sentiment has been a pillar of policy.

IO / NGO Report: International Crisis Group

China's Persian Gulf Strategy: Israel and a Nuclearizing Iran 2009

China is reluctant to impose tough sanctions on Iran because of it,s has oil and arms trade interests. China and Russia must should support the West and pass the UN resolution for sanctions. Iran is increasing its nuclear capacity while negotiations linger.

Journal Article: The Jamestown Foundation

Iran Breaks Atomic Deal Deadline

Iran has createds a separate proposal to purchase nuclear fuel for their Tehran reactor. The UN atomic plan refusal to accept the UN atomic plan is driven by fear of losing control over their nuclear fuel, and "conceding" to the US. Iran is awaiting a response to an independent proposal from an unnamed party.

Newspaper Article: Al Jazeera

Winds of Change: The Future of Democracy in Iran

The political climate of Iran needs strong foreign policy changes, especially with the neighbouring states. The change in foreign policyies will determine Iran's future status in the global political sphere by removing the threat of violent animosity. Friendly relations with the West are important towards if Iran wants the possibility of a secure and successful Iranian economy.

Book: Regnery Publishing Company

TED Talks: Bruce Bueno de Mesquita Predicts Iran's Future

Bueno de Mesquita's game theory simulation predicts Iran's future. Moderates in Iran will get more influential. Iran will almost create a weapon, and then decide to settle for nuclear latency.

Video/Multimedia: Ted Talks

Is Iran Sending Mixed Messages?

Their history with France leads to consensus issues among Iranian leadership. More time is required to consider the proposal. Iran still prefers own suggestion of buying enriched uranium internationally.

Video/Multimedia: Al Jazeera

An Iranian Politician Speaks Out Against the Theocracy

Mehdi Karroubi, the leader of the opposition party, speaks up against the situation his country is facing. He explains various aspects of the conflict, his party's position, attacks the theocracy, and suggests solutions. He also talks about Iran's future.

Video/Multimedia: YouTube