Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 6
6
Paragraph: 25
We agree with the Foreign Secretary that the nuclear deal is imperfect, but Iran’s non-compliance...
Recommendation
We agree with the Foreign Secretary that the nuclear deal is imperfect, but Iran’s non-compliance over the last year has indicated what the nuclear proliferation implications of terminating the JCPOA without a viable replacement might be. A more satisfactory arrangement for all signatories is within reach but is not guaranteed. We recommend that the Government takes the lead amongst the E3 in discussions in the New Year with the incoming US Administration on the future of the JCPOA. It should aim to bring all parties back into full compliance and address the concerns of Gulf allies initially overlooked by the JCPOA, specifically; i) Ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads; ii) Sunset clauses; 28 No prosperity without justice: the UK’s relationship with Iran iii) Timely and public compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency inspection requests; and iv) International Atomic Energy Agency inspection of undeclared nuclear sites and material. The Government should be prepared to work with European and American partners to invoke the snapback of sanctions if full compliance is not achieved.
Paragraph Reference:
25
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
We agree with the Committee that it would not be in the UK’s interests to terminate the agreement without a viable replacement; we need to see Iran return to compliance with its JCPoA commitments. We have worked tirelessly to preserve the agreement and welcome the prospect of a return of the US to the deal. The UK will work closely with our E3 partners and with the new US Administration to deliver renewed transatlantic unity on this issue, which is in all our interests. We also remain committed to engage closely with all parties in the region, in order to address the serious regional security concerns. We note the Committee’s recommendations in relation to addressing the concerns related to ballistic missiles, sunset clauses and cooperation with the IAEA. We have welcomed President Biden’s desire to return to the JCPoA and to explore the possibility of lengthening and strengthening the deal.