The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Aside From Trump, Does Foreign Policy Enter The Canadian Election?
Apr 14, 2025
Janice Stein, a Political Science Professor at the Munk School of Global Affairs and a keen analyst of international affairs, shares insights on the current state of U.S.-Iran diplomatic talks and their potential risks. She discusses how foreign policy, typically sidelined in Canadian elections, is now gaining traction, particularly regarding issues like the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the influence of Donald Trump. Stein emphasizes the shifting focus of voters from personalities to pivotal international issues, urging for transparency and integrity in upcoming Canadian debates.
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Narrow Focus Enables Iran Talks
- Iran and the United States have started nuclear talks focused narrowly on preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, not eliminating all nuclear or missile programs.
- This narrow focus makes negotiations feasible despite previous breakdowns and contrasting positions on missile programs.
Iran's Nuclear Escalation Since 2017
- Since 2017, Iran has enriched uranium to near weapons-grade levels and expelled UN inspectors, escalating tensions.
- This progress poses close risk of nuclear weapon capability, complicating diplomatic options.
US Military Alert Influenced Iran Talks
- US military alert with B-52 bombers sent a strong signal to Iran indicating serious consequences if talks fail.
- This pressure reportedly convinced Iranian leadership to agree to negotiations despite initial reluctance.