US official: Memorandum of understanding paves the way for the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program

A senior official from the administration of US President Donald Trump answered questions from members of the press regarding the memorandum of understanding expected to be signed with Iran. The official, who was not identified, said the agreement would have five fundamental consequences for the US. The official indicated that under the memorandum of understanding, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened and the US blockade of Iranian ports would end. The official stated, "First, it reopens the straits and lifts the (US) blockade on Iranian ports."

"The path to the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program is being paved"

The official emphasized that, secondly, the memorandum of understanding "paves the way" for the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program. The official stated that the memorandum of understanding does not by itself force Iran to end the program, but that this provision could "lead the process to this result."

"The memorandum of understanding enables the US to obtain enriched uranium"

Addressing the disposal of Iran's enriched uranium sources, the US official said, "Thirdly, (the memorandum of understanding) enables the US to obtain the enriched material. The agreement contains a provision stating that this material will be destroyed on-site and then removed from the country."

The official did not speak clearly on whether this step is a provision that requires Iran to surrender its high-level enriched uranium stockpiles in advance.

"Long-term peace guarantee and inspection mechanism are in question"

Arguing that the memorandum of understanding would also guarantee comprehensive peace in the region, the official said, "Fourth, it guarantees long-term peace in the region; this means that Iran will no longer finance violence in the region and at the same time everyone will respect Iran's territorial sovereignty."

Finally, the official stated, "There is also an inspection mechanism here that will ensure this is a long-term commitment and a viable system."

"They will be freed from economic pressures, they will integrate into the world economy"

Regarding the gains Iran would obtain from the agreement, the US official said, "If they comply with the agreement, they will be freed from most of the economic pressures that have been on them for many years. They will reintegrate into the world economy and will be rewarded in return for acting like a normal country."

"Iran does not gain anything immediately upon the signing of the memorandum of understanding"

Stating that Iran would not gain any direct benefits by signing the memorandum of understanding, the official said, "Iran does not gain anything immediately upon the signing of the memorandum of understanding or from the negotiation itself. They gain something if they hand over nuclear material. They gain other benefits if they dismantle and remove their nuclear program or facilities. They gain additional benefits on top of this if they truly remain committed to regional peace and stability."

"Approach statements in Iranian state media with caution"

The official also warned members of the press to approach statements in Iranian state media regarding the terms of the agreement with caution. He argued that these statements might be intended to persuade public opinion and might not always reflect the truth.

Topics regarding whether Iran will hand over its enriched uranium sources are expected to be addressed in nuclear talks to be held following the extension of the ceasefire between the parties under the memorandum of understanding.

News Source: 12punto