Obama’s Administration and US- Iran Relations

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American Iranian Council

Obama’s Administration and US- Iran Relations and Nowruz Celebration on Capitol Hill

by Dr. Wilson
 
Having been fortunate to be able to attend the above event, I felt it would interest many to hear what this group of enlightened speakers, both Iranian and American, had to say.  So I present the following summary: >>

Mr. Roger Cohen, writer for the New York Times and key note speaker:

Rethinking Iran:  A Pragmatic Theocracy

In his presentation he describes the important points that must be remembered when it comes to guiding US foreign policy towards Iran.  As follows:

· Sixty –six percent of the population in Iran is under the age of 33.  This means that the majority do not remember the time or the sentiments of the Islamic Revolution.  Additionally, it means that the majority grew up during a time of war and violence (with Iraq).  They may want governmental reform but they also value stability.  Iranians may reform, but they are unlikely to revolt.  Therefore any aggressive military strike against Iran will prove unwise, rather engagement is the enlightened path.
 
· Pragmatic mullahs who understand the above will be tantamount

· Iran is past the peak of religiosity.  Thirty years of religious regime has allowed Iranians to move comfortably and cautiously towards a more secular way of life.  As a result social issues, like women’s rights are progressing in a positive manner- and this must be remembered

· That Iran is the missing piece to all of the puzzles in the Middle East.  If peace is desired in the region – the US and Iran must ‘talk’.  “You can’t end the Cold War without talking to Russia”

· That it would be naïve to think Iran’s nuclear program merely peaceful, but just as naïve to think it “apocalyptic.”  It is better to control and monitor non military nuclear efforts than have a region at war from Iraq-Afghanistan.  It would also be a disaster for Israel to be at war with both Arabs and Persians.

Dr. Fatemeh Haghighatjoo, former Representative in the Iranian Parliament

As a former government official, she had many enlightening words about Khamenei’s response to Obama’s March 20 address and emphasized why now is the time to begin negotiations.

·  During the Bush Administration, Iran’s Supreme Leader announced that if the US had anything to discuss that he thought would be beneficial to Iran then he himself would address America first.   The fact that the Ayatollah responded directly to Obama suggests that he does indeed see Obama’s message as an important first step.

· If negotiations start now, it will carry more clout with the conservatives; During an election year it is one thing if the reformist groups elect to engage with the US , but engaging conservatives such as Ahmadinejad will carry far more weight.

· Dealing with the conservatives now, can control hardliners later

· The fear that negotiations now will bolster Ahmadinejad’s popularity when many (both American and Iranian) prefer the Iranian President to be ousted is unfounded.  All engagements will ultimately be decided by the Supreme Leader…and would not be an endorsement of Ahmadinejad over another candidate.

Finally from Professor Hooshang Amirahmadi (Rutgers and Oxford University)

In a rather lengthy document entitled the AIC’s Whitepaper, he lists out a pathway to success for Iran and American peace.

·  For three decades US-Iran relations consist of a “no war – no peace” agreement.  It has worked for the Islamic Republic who is concerned that increased negotiations with America will bring about revolution, and refuses to become a secular puppet government.  But as Iran suffers isolationism, and Israel fights for security as well, the status quo is no longer an option.

·  America must:
1.  Recognize the Islamic Republic and not promote regime change. 
2.  Remove the label from Hamas and Hezbollah as terrorists
3.  Apologize and admit guilt for past misdeeds

·  Iran must:
1. Recognize a two state solution for Israel and Palestine.
2. Cease to supply military aid to Hamas and Hezbollah
3.  Freeze uranium enrichment except for civil purposes
4. Engage in free, fair elections
5.  Comply with human rights acts

In summary

A lot of genuine discussion and debate was achieved at this a unique meeting of the minds and cultures.  Patience must be practiced by all, but patience and prudence are a far better pathway then rash, illogical action which would have marked detrimental effects.

Many thanks to Dr. Wilson for her contribution...