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In a significant diplomatic development, Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed his nation’s willingness to mediate between Iran and the United States in efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The offer was made during a phone conversation with Iran’s President-elect, Dr Alireza Pezeshkian, underscoring Japan’s strategic interest in stabilizing the Middle East and its longstanding role as a facilitator in international negotiations.
Prime Minister Kishida emphasized Japan’s commitment to fostering dialogue between Tehran and Washington, aiming to reinstate the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The multilateral agreement, initiated in 2015, involved Iran agreeing to curtail its nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, it was abandoned in 2018 by the former U.S. administration.
During the call, President-elect Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s stance, highlighting the nation’s consistent readiness for negotiations. He pointed out that it was the U.S. withdrawal under the Trump administration that undermined the deal. Pezeshkian stressed that any future discussions should address all facets of the agreement, ensuring the restoration of Iran’s rights and interests.
The JCPOA, signed by Iran and the P5+1 (the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, China, and Germany), aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear capabilities while allowing peaceful nuclear activities. The deal included rigorous monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure compliance. However, Trump’s exit from the deal led to the reinstatement of stringent sanctions on Iran, significantly impacting its economy and escalating tensions in the region.
Since the U.S. withdrawal, Iran has gradually reduced its compliance with the JCPOA, enriching uranium beyond the limits set by the agreement and expanding its nuclear program. These actions have raised alarm among Western nations and heightened the urgency for renewed negotiations.
Japan’s mediation offer comes at a crucial time as the international community seeks to prevent further escalation and encourage diplomatic resolutions. Japan, known for its non-aggressive foreign policy and strong economic ties with both the U.S. and Iran, is well-positioned to play a constructive role in bridging the gap between the two nations.
Historically, Iran-U.S. relations have been fraught with tension, especially following the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the subsequent U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. Despite moments of thaw, such as the 2015 nuclear deal, mistrust has often overshadowed bilateral interactions. The Trump administration’s maximum-pressure campaign further strained relations, leading to increased regional instability.
The Biden administration has expressed interest in rejoining the JCPOA, contingent upon Iran’s return to full compliance. However, negotiations have faced numerous hurdles, including disagreements over the sequence of actions required from both sides.