Why in news:-Trump says he sent letter to Iran leader to negotiate nuclear deal
About
- The Iran Nuclear Deal, officially called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is an agreement signed in 2015 between Iran and world powers (USA, UK, France, China, Russia, Germany, and the EU).
- Iran promised to reduce its nuclear activities (so it couldn’t quickly build a nuclear bomb) in exchange for the removal of economic sanctions that were hurting its economy.
Key Provisions of JCPOA
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Uranium Enrichment Limits:
- Iran agreed to reduce uranium enrichment to 3.67% (far below the 90% needed for weapons).
- Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium was limited to 300 kg (a 98% reduction).
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Nuclear Facility Restrictions:
- Iran could only use its Natanz facility for enrichment.
- The Fordow facility was converted into a research center.
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Reduction of Centrifuges:
- Iran had to reduce centrifuges (used for uranium enrichment) from 19,000 to 6,104.
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International Monitoring:
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was given full access to monitor Iran’s nuclear program.
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Lifting of Sanctions
Withdrawal of US from JCPOA
- In 2018, then US President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal, citing concerns that Iran was still supporting terrorism and developing ballistic missiles.
- The US reimposed sanctions on Iran, leading to economic instability in Iran.
Response from Iran
- Iran resumed uranium enrichment above the JCPOA limits.
- The country restricted IAEA inspections and began using advanced centrifuges.
- Current Status (2024-2025): Negotiations continue, but Iran’s nuclear program is closer than ever to weapons-grade levels.