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FT News Briefing

The Rachman Review: Iran’s nuclear talks could reshape the Middle East

Apr 18, 2025
Sanam Vakil, Director of the Middle East program at Chatham House, shares her insights on Iran's nuclear negotiations and their impact on regional stability. She discusses how the evolving dynamics involve major players like the U.S., Israel, and emerging alliances with Russia and China. The conversation touches on the urgent need for a new nuclear deal and the tensions surrounding military options. Additionally, shifting relationships between Iran and Gulf states are explored, shedding light on the future of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
23:54

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Iran's nuclear advancements since the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA have raised concerns about regional destabilization and military conflicts.
  • The urgency of negotiations for a new nuclear deal with Iran reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics amid pressures from Israel and domestic challenges.

Deep dives

Iran's Nuclear Program: A Growing Threat

Iran's nuclear program has significantly advanced since the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. With increased enrichment and centrifuge production, experts now view Iran as a threshold state that is closer to developing a nuclear weapon. The geopolitical landscape has shifted, with Iran facing setbacks in regional conflicts and strengthening ties with China and Russia while its relationships with European nations are strained over its nuclear activities and detainment of nationals. This evolving backdrop raises concerns about the potential for military action against Iran, especially with Israel actively seeking to strike its nuclear facilities.

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