Mr. Zarif presents a calm, intelligent argument for acceptance of the nuclear deal reached by the UN Security Council (plus Germany). It contrasts sharply with the argument against the deal shouted at us by Benjamin Netanyahu, who attempted to derail the deal before one had been proposed. Iran is evolving, recognizing its place and its potential in the region, and I believe that Mr. Zarif represents the majority of Iranians in wanting to move forward in peace, ending the extremist positions of Ahmadinejad, and despite the doubts of Netanyahu.
73
Since the Foreign Minister has invited the American community to participate in the discussion, and maybe the Ayatollah will invite Mr Kerry to make the same outreach to the Iranian citizens, let's build on this with some concrete proposals.
Lets say the objective of these negotiations is in fact peace in the middle east in our lifetimes.
Let's recognize a nuclear exchange would damage life in that part of the earth for generations.
Let's assert that indigenous peoples of middle eastern countries will choose to live under the form of governance that best suits their cultures.
Let's assume that middle eastern cultures do not equate to western cultures, but neither culture has any god given right to impose its culture upon any other.
So, what could be done?
1. Iran invite the inspections anywhere the UN sees fit, much as Brezhnev invited the US to inspect USSR nuclear research.
2. Iran officially distinguish itself from Sunni lands and recognize Israel's right to exist peacefully.
3. Israel cease and desist it's building of settlements on the west bank and turn over those settlements to displaced Palestinians from the 1948/9 displacements, thereby ending the "right of return" issue.
4. Saudi Arabia and Egypt denounce, outlaw and exterminate both the religious and economic foundations of Wahhabi extremism.
5. The US, Russia, China and Europe agree outlaw the sale of weaponry to any nation in the middle east.
6. The economic sanctions be lifted from Iran.
Lets say the objective of these negotiations is in fact peace in the middle east in our lifetimes.
Let's recognize a nuclear exchange would damage life in that part of the earth for generations.
Let's assert that indigenous peoples of middle eastern countries will choose to live under the form of governance that best suits their cultures.
Let's assume that middle eastern cultures do not equate to western cultures, but neither culture has any god given right to impose its culture upon any other.
So, what could be done?
1. Iran invite the inspections anywhere the UN sees fit, much as Brezhnev invited the US to inspect USSR nuclear research.
2. Iran officially distinguish itself from Sunni lands and recognize Israel's right to exist peacefully.
3. Israel cease and desist it's building of settlements on the west bank and turn over those settlements to displaced Palestinians from the 1948/9 displacements, thereby ending the "right of return" issue.
4. Saudi Arabia and Egypt denounce, outlaw and exterminate both the religious and economic foundations of Wahhabi extremism.
5. The US, Russia, China and Europe agree outlaw the sale of weaponry to any nation in the middle east.
6. The economic sanctions be lifted from Iran.
25
The sanctions are hurting Iran's economy: high inflation, no jobs for a very young population (that does not remember/know about the Shah/US Embassy takeover/etc.), depreciating currency, and huge loss of middle class savings.
Until Iran allows unfettered inspection of all military sites including Parchin and changes its behavior (funding, training, and supporting Hezbollah, Houthis, Moqtada's gangs, Assad's henchmen that use sarin gas on their citizens etc.) in a verifiable way, they should be given no/only very limited relief.
Until Iran allows unfettered inspection of all military sites including Parchin and changes its behavior (funding, training, and supporting Hezbollah, Houthis, Moqtada's gangs, Assad's henchmen that use sarin gas on their citizens etc.) in a verifiable way, they should be given no/only very limited relief.
13
Encouraging words, and generous in their tone especially given some of the past actions taken by our government against Iran. Let's hope that this portends further discussion and an eventual agreement. Perhaps it is not too much to hope for that Iran will recognize Israel.
15
We ought to hear, all else aside, from the leaders of Iran much more often.
I applaud the Times for {finally} letting Iran speak for itself in these pages.
The world does not have to be the way it has been made - largely, in recent years, by neocons {and neoliberals} whose only tool is military action.
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Now - let's talk about Israel's nuclear weapons and the real prospect of the "Hasidic bomb."
I applaud the Times for {finally} letting Iran speak for itself in these pages.
The world does not have to be the way it has been made - largely, in recent years, by neocons {and neoliberals} whose only tool is military action.
http://www.voltairenet.org/article178638.html
Now - let's talk about Israel's nuclear weapons and the real prospect of the "Hasidic bomb."
50
"Security cannot be pursued at the expense of the insecurity of others. No nation can achieve its interests without considering the interests of others."
Does this mean that Iran is set to recognize Israel's right to exist? Wouldn't that be the foundation for pursuing security?
Does this mean that Iran is set to recognize Israel's right to exist? Wouldn't that be the foundation for pursuing security?
30
A message from Iran is intelligent, thoughtful and sane. How fortunate the world is to have this opportunity.
I am shocked when I hear reactionary members of Congress speak of bombing Iran. Their insensitivity and stupidity is glaringly apparent. For these Americans to promote war and suffering for others, always shows their arrogance that war will not come to our shores.
I am shocked when I hear reactionary members of Congress speak of bombing Iran. Their insensitivity and stupidity is glaringly apparent. For these Americans to promote war and suffering for others, always shows their arrogance that war will not come to our shores.
74
Has anyone else noticed how many times the phrase "The wider PERSIAN Gulf" was mentioned? Was that a reflection of his aspirations in the region, i.e. to have the Middle East once again dominated by Persia? Was there a hidden message? Or just a Freudian slip?
14
The message is keep the sanctions in place. No bilateral deal here.
They like their chances against the Arabs and Israel is doing it to itself.
Putin's victim complex is theirs to leverage in Syria and at home.
Since the Iranian regime is not careful about what it wishes for let them have it.
They like their chances against the Arabs and Israel is doing it to itself.
Putin's victim complex is theirs to leverage in Syria and at home.
Since the Iranian regime is not careful about what it wishes for let them have it.
1
Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif,
a far better actor than Omar Sharif,
has taken to Twitter to voice his belief,
there isn’t a phased plan for sanctions relief.
He tweeted that none of the plants will shut down,
Fordow will stay open and remain underground,
enrichment proceeds unrestrained and unbound,
and whatever's enriched can be sold out of town.
This fact-sheet the P5 + 1 has presented,
is nothing but spin, Zarif then lamented.
None of the bargains, it seems are cemented,
yet all those involved are being commended.
But Iran has made only one promise to date,
that their hatred toward Israel will never abate,
and given the chance, they will seek to create,
a weapon to wipe out the Jews and their state.
Once sanctions are lifted Iran will make millions,
then funnel those funds to their war-making minions,
and despite all the back pats and rosy opinions,
the cost of this deal will be paid by civilians.
And when there’s an arms race, what happens then?
The Saudis will nuke up, so let’s not pretend.
The Jews under threat and forsaken by friends,
from never forget, to, oh no, not again.
When Iran breaks their word and the truth is revealed,
when it turns out that all that we’ve read wasn’t real,
all the words written in defense of this deal,
should be chewed up and eaten with crow as a meal.
a far better actor than Omar Sharif,
has taken to Twitter to voice his belief,
there isn’t a phased plan for sanctions relief.
He tweeted that none of the plants will shut down,
Fordow will stay open and remain underground,
enrichment proceeds unrestrained and unbound,
and whatever's enriched can be sold out of town.
This fact-sheet the P5 + 1 has presented,
is nothing but spin, Zarif then lamented.
None of the bargains, it seems are cemented,
yet all those involved are being commended.
But Iran has made only one promise to date,
that their hatred toward Israel will never abate,
and given the chance, they will seek to create,
a weapon to wipe out the Jews and their state.
Once sanctions are lifted Iran will make millions,
then funnel those funds to their war-making minions,
and despite all the back pats and rosy opinions,
the cost of this deal will be paid by civilians.
And when there’s an arms race, what happens then?
The Saudis will nuke up, so let’s not pretend.
The Jews under threat and forsaken by friends,
from never forget, to, oh no, not again.
When Iran breaks their word and the truth is revealed,
when it turns out that all that we’ve read wasn’t real,
all the words written in defense of this deal,
should be chewed up and eaten with crow as a meal.
10
So Iran holds that "Good relations with Iran’s neighbors are our top priority". Their foreign policy is "The establishment of a collective forum for dialogue in the Persian Gulf region". And in regard to Yemen they "offered a reasonable and practical approach to address this painful and unnecessary crisis."
What planet does he think we live on. That Iran deals with the rest of the Persian Gulf though a collective form of dialogue, when in fact they don't deal with anyone at all, other than through violent and often terrorist proxies.
They refer to the war in Yemen as " this painful and unnecessary crisis", when it was Iran's years of shipping weapons to the Houthis for the purpose of fighting that is the very reason for this war.
And to talk of recognized principles of respect for sovereignty and political independence. it was Iran though its proxy Hizbalah that was found to have assassinated Rafik Harari, president of Lebanon, which shows their true views as to respect for sovereignty and the political independence of Lebanon.
Noninterference in internal affairs??? peaceful settlement of disputes??? impermissiblity of threat or use of force??? (annihilating Israel, for example).
This whole piece reads as if we in the US are not just idiots but calmly accept the most outrageous lies.
Well Mr. Zarif, we have nothing to gain by politely agreeing with you that Iran is a peace loving nation, or that your plans are anything but peaceful. Not all Americans are John Kerry.
What planet does he think we live on. That Iran deals with the rest of the Persian Gulf though a collective form of dialogue, when in fact they don't deal with anyone at all, other than through violent and often terrorist proxies.
They refer to the war in Yemen as " this painful and unnecessary crisis", when it was Iran's years of shipping weapons to the Houthis for the purpose of fighting that is the very reason for this war.
And to talk of recognized principles of respect for sovereignty and political independence. it was Iran though its proxy Hizbalah that was found to have assassinated Rafik Harari, president of Lebanon, which shows their true views as to respect for sovereignty and the political independence of Lebanon.
Noninterference in internal affairs??? peaceful settlement of disputes??? impermissiblity of threat or use of force??? (annihilating Israel, for example).
This whole piece reads as if we in the US are not just idiots but calmly accept the most outrageous lies.
Well Mr. Zarif, we have nothing to gain by politely agreeing with you that Iran is a peace loving nation, or that your plans are anything but peaceful. Not all Americans are John Kerry.
13
Perhaps it would be helpful to suggest to his own citizens that chanting 'death to America' does not engender trust.
21
"The world cannot afford to continue to avoid addressing the roots of the turmoil in the wider Persian Gulf region."
Iran could start by recognizing Israel's right to exist. They can cover any statement with heaping criticism of Israel's policies - but they have to take this first step to be trusted.
Iran could start by recognizing Israel's right to exist. They can cover any statement with heaping criticism of Israel's policies - but they have to take this first step to be trusted.
17
What Mohammad Javad Zarif is saying here is not just about the present ongoing nuclear deal. He is discussing a philosophy and strategy for how the Middle East must govern itself and how the West can cooperate in this process and it's right on point.
I must say, with history and potential future outcomes in mind, America and Israel might not have a better prospect for a state (Muslim state) partner in the region than Iran. Regardless of the anti-western hardliners in Iran who are increasingly becoming a smaller portion of the Iranian population (just like those anti-anything not American hardliners here at home), Americans and its policymakers must remember that in Iran exists a younger more democratic and compassionate minded generation -- one that doesn't just pray for a nuclear deal, but prays for entrance into the global economy and global civil society. But any aggression to Iran could and would change that.
Just look in Iraq, this same demographic of young, democratic minded people existed. In 2002, 9 out of 10 Iraqi's under 18 had a favorable view of the U.S. In 2006, 1 out of 10 Iraqi's under 18 had a favorable view of the U.S.
Right now, here, we are having a dialogue with Iran and one that can prove pivotal to reshaping the region without immediately jeopardizing the security threats of Israel or America. We must realize by not engaging in this dialogue and be willing to trust (with limitations), Israel and America would be worse off.
I must say, with history and potential future outcomes in mind, America and Israel might not have a better prospect for a state (Muslim state) partner in the region than Iran. Regardless of the anti-western hardliners in Iran who are increasingly becoming a smaller portion of the Iranian population (just like those anti-anything not American hardliners here at home), Americans and its policymakers must remember that in Iran exists a younger more democratic and compassionate minded generation -- one that doesn't just pray for a nuclear deal, but prays for entrance into the global economy and global civil society. But any aggression to Iran could and would change that.
Just look in Iraq, this same demographic of young, democratic minded people existed. In 2002, 9 out of 10 Iraqi's under 18 had a favorable view of the U.S. In 2006, 1 out of 10 Iraqi's under 18 had a favorable view of the U.S.
Right now, here, we are having a dialogue with Iran and one that can prove pivotal to reshaping the region without immediately jeopardizing the security threats of Israel or America. We must realize by not engaging in this dialogue and be willing to trust (with limitations), Israel and America would be worse off.
19
This sounds as if written by Obama & Kerry. The US has caved on every point of negotiation including agreeing on immediate sanctions relief as demanded by the Ayatollah. This from a nation that funds Hamas, provided Hez with 100000 missile many of which are precision guided, and supports the Houthi regime in Yemen. On Army day last week were shouts of "Death to America,Death to Israel". A senior general boldly states the destruction of Israel is "non-negotiable". Ballistic missile technology is moving ahead as is uranium enrichment, spinning centrifuges and ongoing R&D.Military site inspections are off limits. This is not a negotiation but a capitulation to Iran in furthering the goals and ambitions of The Supreme Leader.
14
This is an elegant and expertly crafted attempt at obfuscation. "Security cannot be pursued at the expense of the insecurity of others." Developing nuclear weapons, funding Hezbollah, denying the right of Israel to exist and other aggressive behavior is not pursuing security, it is pursuing dominance.
21
I find the fact that he mentions recognized principles such as, "respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence..." Etc. etc. I have to wonder whether these ideals would extend to Israel or if he is intentionally ignoring that problem. Does he really mean regional stakeholders or Islamic stakeholders? I do not agree with much of what Israel does these days, but I also don't believe they should be left out to dry in the region. Both sides of that dispute need to work harder for peace, and putting an end to divisive rhetoric.
The other problem, obviously, is Saudi Arabia. Can these two regional powers find a way to get past their differences and work to end the sectarian violence in the region. This would mean Iran ending it's support for a violent regime in Syria, and SA reducing the flood of oil it is putting on the market in an attempt to strangle Iran financially. There are many other ways these two butt heads, but these seem like the largest problems facing their relationship.
There are so many problems and disagreements in the Middle East, it will obviously take years for anything to get better. This article and the possibility of a nuclear deal seem to point towards a light at the end of the tunnel (though we have been disappointed in the past, the Arab Spring comes to mind).
The other problem, obviously, is Saudi Arabia. Can these two regional powers find a way to get past their differences and work to end the sectarian violence in the region. This would mean Iran ending it's support for a violent regime in Syria, and SA reducing the flood of oil it is putting on the market in an attempt to strangle Iran financially. There are many other ways these two butt heads, but these seem like the largest problems facing their relationship.
There are so many problems and disagreements in the Middle East, it will obviously take years for anything to get better. This article and the possibility of a nuclear deal seem to point towards a light at the end of the tunnel (though we have been disappointed in the past, the Arab Spring comes to mind).
9
Beware the age rhetoric!
How easy it is for Zarif to appeal to the heart of all people who are interested in peace. Iran is indeed sophisticated and no less in propaganda.
While Iran may write nice articles that speak to harmony and peace their actions and words at home are what we should be focused on. The fact is that they continue to demonize the US, Israel in Farsi to their own people. The continue to support Hezbollah and Hamas and continue to evade IAEA questions about nuclear weaponization.
This is not about respect. This is about obfuscation and delay. Iran is only interested in negotiating with the West in order to gain an advantage in achieving their goals of becoming a nuclear weapon state and regional hegemony.
I know it's hard in the age of Obama and his rhetoric it's hard to resist believing the words we want to hear. But what favour are we doing anyone if we take these words as they are do not review them critically and with skepticism. They know what we want to hear.
How easy it is for Zarif to appeal to the heart of all people who are interested in peace. Iran is indeed sophisticated and no less in propaganda.
While Iran may write nice articles that speak to harmony and peace their actions and words at home are what we should be focused on. The fact is that they continue to demonize the US, Israel in Farsi to their own people. The continue to support Hezbollah and Hamas and continue to evade IAEA questions about nuclear weaponization.
This is not about respect. This is about obfuscation and delay. Iran is only interested in negotiating with the West in order to gain an advantage in achieving their goals of becoming a nuclear weapon state and regional hegemony.
I know it's hard in the age of Obama and his rhetoric it's hard to resist believing the words we want to hear. But what favour are we doing anyone if we take these words as they are do not review them critically and with skepticism. They know what we want to hear.
18
Sorry, don't believe a word coming from Iran. Additionally, I do not believe a word coming from Obama and Kerry either. For these players it is all about spin, wanting a peace prize and kicking the can down the road. Oh, can't stand Gen Dempsey either. He is such a mouthpiece of the WH. The spin about ISIS is insulting. Iran and Russia have gained influence and created havoc because Obama has let it happen. Meanwhile Assad is still in place.
14
Zarif is absolutely right that peace in the Middle East cannot exclude Iran as it cannot exclude Saudi Arabia because they are the major player.
Though Zarfi tries to avoid mentions Saudi in the context, he certainly wishes to build better relations with neighbours, and his view represent what Ayatollah thinks.
The U.S has leverage to press Saudi to stop fund terrorism, it didn't do it. The U.S can press Saudi to talk to Iran. The US should not miss the opportunity this time.
Though Zarfi tries to avoid mentions Saudi in the context, he certainly wishes to build better relations with neighbours, and his view represent what Ayatollah thinks.
The U.S has leverage to press Saudi to stop fund terrorism, it didn't do it. The U.S can press Saudi to talk to Iran. The US should not miss the opportunity this time.
21
Iran simply cannot be trusted to keep its word and its fundamentalist Islamist undemocratic regime, exporting terror across the globe, makes it a pariah among civilized nations, as well as for its threats against Israel. Hiding behind the Quran is a disingenuous as it gets. The Quran forbids killing anyone unless it is for the murder of another yet Iran threatens to wipe out an entire nation.
18
"Words, words, words," from a country whose chief export is terrorism. How anyone can believe these empty platitudes is incomprehensible. What's next, a North Korean lecture extolling the virtues of prison reform?
Writing the op-ed was a a waste of Zarif's time; most American's aren't as naive or foolish as the Obama administration. As long as the Iranian regime keeps the dialogue open with the Obama administration, he should feel secure in the fact that he will get everything he wants.
Writing the op-ed was a a waste of Zarif's time; most American's aren't as naive or foolish as the Obama administration. As long as the Iranian regime keeps the dialogue open with the Obama administration, he should feel secure in the fact that he will get everything he wants.
26
Please give me a break. Zarif is nothing but a bagman for religious fanatics that rule Iran with an Iron fist. I'll be the first to admit that the Anglo American coup that knocked Mohammad Mosaddegh out of power was an extreme example of racism, greed and short sightedness by Churchill, Ike and the Dulles brothers. There would probably be a strong democracy there if it weren't for this. However this does not excuse the current rulers policy of coercion and violence all over the middle east for the past 30 years. They may be anti ISIS and AL Qaeda, but there are still the worlds biggest supplier of state sponsored terrorism. It could be asserted that ISIS and AL Qaeda are Irans free range chicken coming home to roost. This article is nothing but propaganda from a nation ruled by blood thirsty liars.
28
It's would be fascinating entertainment to read Mr. Zarif's words, were it not for the fact that this eloquent, smooth writer and negotiator is speaking on behalf of a militant theocracy which remains sworn to the obliteration of the only sovereign Jewish country on the planet. Mr. Zarif, why don't you prove that your intentions are as you make them appear by recognizing the existence of the State of Israel?
28
Nice try - When Iran's supreme leader the Ayatollah says in Iran & the world that Israel has a right to exist they will be more believable. Better yet, rescind promoting stonings, cutting off limbs, as punishments. Or channel the Prophet's warrior women as appropriate exemplars of a woman's role in society.
Time to transition into at least the 19th century.
Time to transition into at least the 19th century.
40
Zarif does not allude to Iran's tacit support of quasi terrorist groups, which troubles me. However, in every generation, a great leader emerges - Ghandi, Churchill, Roosevelt to name a few. I'm not suggesting that Zarif is that leader. However, dialog is so much better than the alternatives, and it will require great leadership from someone from the West, Iran and/or Saudi Arabia for a successful dialog to become fruitful. I hope to see the encouragement of an optimistic world view, where great countries work together for a better world.
6
Mr. Zarif describes Iran's approach to these difficult negotiations as dignified. I would agree and add certainly more dignified than the circus that is the US Congress. Zarif is the adult in the room.
36
amazing, america owned the shah starting 1941 and more explicitly 1953 mossedegh coup with CIA & M6 because iran nationalized the iranian oil - along the way america owned saddam hussein when irak attacked iran 1980-1988 -
americans should know our government, president ike & nixon, did our 1st coup in iran - republicans should get over it and carrying the iranian grudge because the students hostages lasted 444 days but no deaths - iranians are indo-europeans just like most americans -
americans should know our government, president ike & nixon, did our 1st coup in iran - republicans should get over it and carrying the iranian grudge because the students hostages lasted 444 days but no deaths - iranians are indo-europeans just like most americans -
11
If only we could identify the cause of instability in Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. If we could but find a common denominator perhaps we could re-focus our foreign policy to counter that malevolent actor.
7
What you write is very correct and could be the foundation to help solve the the Persian Gulf problem. Iran, however, is not without fault and Iran has to show the world that you really desire a peaceful solution to not only the Persian Gulf problem but to the wider problem of terrorism throughout the world.
Trust does not just come with words but with positive action and this has been slow to come. The world remembers Hitler's promises prior to World War II and took him at his word and look where that ended up.
Iran's government will have to demonstrate a far greater change in how they interact before they can set ant standard for other nations to have any level of trust. A first step in this direction would be to open up your nuclear program to global inspection and renounce support to any corrupt governments and organizations supporting terrorism not by word but by your actions.
Trust does not just come with words but with positive action and this has been slow to come. The world remembers Hitler's promises prior to World War II and took him at his word and look where that ended up.
Iran's government will have to demonstrate a far greater change in how they interact before they can set ant standard for other nations to have any level of trust. A first step in this direction would be to open up your nuclear program to global inspection and renounce support to any corrupt governments and organizations supporting terrorism not by word but by your actions.
2
Dr. Zarif is part of the last group of engineering/physical science students from Iran educated in the US )prior to the Islamic Revolution/hostage crisis). While his written English is impeccable, his logic is not. The word Israel did not come up at all in this piece.
Transparency is desired in all matters, except for the one that truly counts. With all due respect to Dr. Zarif, Iran sits on "a Top Three Oil Reserve." The immediate need for an alternative to oil escapes me.
If the Iranians were truly interested in an indigenous nuclear program for the production of low-enriched uranium or LEU (suitable for nuclear reactors and medical isotopes), I'd advise the Obama Administration (along with the P5+1) to agree.
Dr. Zarif's piece does not reveal that this is what Iran wants. We may conclude that Iran's concern with mitigating the current turmoil in the Middle East is merely cover for more extensive development of its nuclear program. Once one has produced some LEU, the technology (additional centrifuges) to generate highly enriched uranium or HEU is within reach. Moreover, unless reprocessing is curtailed or stopped altogether, plutonium production (for use in a weapon) is certainly possible.
It is the opacity of this regime and the devastation that can be wrought by these weapons that is of great concern to professionals like me. If these concerns can be brought to bear upon Iran in Geneva, then peace does have a chance.
Transparency is desired in all matters, except for the one that truly counts. With all due respect to Dr. Zarif, Iran sits on "a Top Three Oil Reserve." The immediate need for an alternative to oil escapes me.
If the Iranians were truly interested in an indigenous nuclear program for the production of low-enriched uranium or LEU (suitable for nuclear reactors and medical isotopes), I'd advise the Obama Administration (along with the P5+1) to agree.
Dr. Zarif's piece does not reveal that this is what Iran wants. We may conclude that Iran's concern with mitigating the current turmoil in the Middle East is merely cover for more extensive development of its nuclear program. Once one has produced some LEU, the technology (additional centrifuges) to generate highly enriched uranium or HEU is within reach. Moreover, unless reprocessing is curtailed or stopped altogether, plutonium production (for use in a weapon) is certainly possible.
It is the opacity of this regime and the devastation that can be wrought by these weapons that is of great concern to professionals like me. If these concerns can be brought to bear upon Iran in Geneva, then peace does have a chance.
8
Willing to talk ... the Iranian government has been talking for quite some time. How about willing to act? A regional process ... how about including Isreal in that region. Otherwise, nothing has changed
9
If Israel wants Iran to freeze nuclear fuel enrichment would they be willing to freeze settlements?
28
Zarif's commitment on the right of Isreal to exist must have been edited out.
13
Very good thoughts. It will be a shame if the U. S. throws away this opportunity for promoting peace in the world because of "hidden agendas and subservience to money donors" of a lot of U. S. politicians.
22
1938 again.....same rhetorics as was used after Munich Agreement was signed. Same slogans different time....same evil
9
An agenda-driven article, but no more so than any other I guess.
As the saying goes, you don't make peace with your friends, you make peace with your enemies.
As the saying goes, you don't make peace with your friends, you make peace with your enemies.
4
What a low bar for earning trust!
A few pretty words and all the liberals are falling over themselves for joy. Apparently actions such as supporting terrorism abroad, and suppressing democracy at home, while declaring intent to destroy Israel and America, mean nothing.
What if he would have just posted a video of himself sneezing without inserting "Death to America" before the gesundheit? Would that too have been enough? Would you still be hugging each other and jumping up and down pointing out the "radical" departure from extremism and declaring the beauty and integrity of this propaganda piece written on the backs of those locked up in his jails at home or blown to bits by his terrorists abroad? I think so.
A few pretty words and all the liberals are falling over themselves for joy. Apparently actions such as supporting terrorism abroad, and suppressing democracy at home, while declaring intent to destroy Israel and America, mean nothing.
What if he would have just posted a video of himself sneezing without inserting "Death to America" before the gesundheit? Would that too have been enough? Would you still be hugging each other and jumping up and down pointing out the "radical" departure from extremism and declaring the beauty and integrity of this propaganda piece written on the backs of those locked up in his jails at home or blown to bits by his terrorists abroad? I think so.
9
I really do want us to have better relations with Iran, to come to a nuclear agreement, and to cooperate more generally over regional issues. Know what would help the most? If Iran also openly stated, as it calls for things like "impermissibility of threat or use of force; and promotion of peace, stability," that it would stop supporting groups who threaten and use force, and who stand against peace and stability. It clearly, undeniably supports such groups right now. You can't call for the other guys to stop doing something that you're doing yourself... but I'd be very happy if we ALL agreed to cut it out at once.
5
ISIS is the former Iraqi military using religion as a cover to grab land and oil. Iran is scared of them, that's what's forcing them to offer an olive branch. We should make a deal (historically we've made deals with far worse players) and verify each step. Just like with Cuba: decades of failed policy only works as a propaganda tool for the other side to demonize us and allow them to play victim. Pakistan already has the bomb, is arguably way more radical, they aided and abetted Osama Bin Laden, yet nobody is attacking them. Why can't we do the same with Iran? Oh, right: Oil. Wake up folks: we're being sold yet another decade long faux war under faux pretenses complete with the same tired-old promises that any strike would be 'surgical' and would only last 'a few weeks'. Um...no thank you. Opposition to the Iran deal (even before people knew what it consisted of) is all about keeping the status quo (ie: military budgets and needing a constant threat to point to) and very little to do with keeping us safe. No intelligence agency agrees with the assessment that Iran is a threat, but that like of malarky has been sold to us over and over for years by those who directly profit from our fear and ignorance. Enough.
15
The topic on the table is Iran's nuclear arms program. Mr. Zarif talks about many important issues, but seems to avoid exactly what we need to talk about.
10
I applaud Mr. Zarif for this article. A regional approach to addressing the root causes of the myriad of middle-east conflicts is critically important. That must at some point include Israel. It is an integral part of the middle east.
An important problem is Iranian official rhetoric and actions often contradict Mr Sharif's assertions. That bellicose rhetoric must stop before any progress can be expected. That was the case with the nuclear negotiations. Progress was made when both Iran and the major powers tempered their rhetoric and decided to negotiate quietly and seriously. Enormous progress was made and I sure hope all parties will work diligently without too much public rhetoric to complete the deal.
If that happens, I think Iran must initiate serious trust building steps. Two things come to mind. First is an unlalateral declaration by Iran that indeed a serious Sunni-Shia conflict exists and that Iran's objective is to resolve it peacefully with regional Sunni powers. Hopefully Saudi Arabia will respond in kind. The second is for Iran to moderate its rhetoric about Israel. Whether Iran likes it or not, Israel is there to stay and normal relations between Israel and Iran must emerge over time.
An important problem is Iranian official rhetoric and actions often contradict Mr Sharif's assertions. That bellicose rhetoric must stop before any progress can be expected. That was the case with the nuclear negotiations. Progress was made when both Iran and the major powers tempered their rhetoric and decided to negotiate quietly and seriously. Enormous progress was made and I sure hope all parties will work diligently without too much public rhetoric to complete the deal.
If that happens, I think Iran must initiate serious trust building steps. Two things come to mind. First is an unlalateral declaration by Iran that indeed a serious Sunni-Shia conflict exists and that Iran's objective is to resolve it peacefully with regional Sunni powers. Hopefully Saudi Arabia will respond in kind. The second is for Iran to moderate its rhetoric about Israel. Whether Iran likes it or not, Israel is there to stay and normal relations between Israel and Iran must emerge over time.
8
Political agit-prop or propaganda. This is an over the top, meretricious article that tries to paint Iran as one of the good guys in the region. It makes it appear that Iran is not involved in fomenting revolts in such places as Yemen, etc. which could not be further from the truth. When he states it is the will of the Iranian people, we know that it is untrue. The people have no say in running the government in Iran, a theocracy. Bottom line, this article is almost as phony and insincere as the one Putin wrote and sent to the Times. Do not believe anything in it.
6
You know Mr. Zarif isn't being honest. It is an established law that when anyone claims their solution is "holistic", they are lying.
That being said, Mr. Zarif's message is pretty clear. First, the US should sign a deal that gives Iran nukes. Second, Iran will settle things in the middle east with those pesky Sunni's and Jews. In the meantime, Iran will show it's "good faith" by continuing to talk with the US.
That being said, Mr. Zarif's message is pretty clear. First, the US should sign a deal that gives Iran nukes. Second, Iran will settle things in the middle east with those pesky Sunni's and Jews. In the meantime, Iran will show it's "good faith" by continuing to talk with the US.
10
Dear Mr. Zarif,
Iran has been islolated for far too long. We Americans have to put the hostage crisis behind us and move to a relatiionship with Iran where both countries are on an equal footing. Free trade and free movement of people between America and Iran will benefit both countries.
Iran has more young people under thirty than any other age group. They are so tired of old revolutionary rhetoric and worn out slogans. They want a peaceful, democratic country that is open to the world. But right now an aging theocracy is still pulling the strings. They should bow out and let the young people and diplomats like yourself rule the country.
But Mr. Zarif, if Iran wants to be treated with respect then it needs to act responsibly. Iran needs to if not yet formally recognize Israel, at least stop declaiming against it. There should be no cries of death to anyone. Think peace and love instead!
Iran should also release all political prisoners from Evian prison and stop sponsoring terrorism abroad through Hezbollah.
Turkey is a good example of a Muslim country that has kept its Islamic culture and its roots but opened itself to the world.
Iran also needs to realize that all Muslims are brothers and sisters regardless of whether they are Shia or Sunni. So the obsession with this schism needs to end.
Inshallah, all this could happen quickly. And then I can visit Iran a s a tourist and spend Nowruz in Tehran.
Iran has been islolated for far too long. We Americans have to put the hostage crisis behind us and move to a relatiionship with Iran where both countries are on an equal footing. Free trade and free movement of people between America and Iran will benefit both countries.
Iran has more young people under thirty than any other age group. They are so tired of old revolutionary rhetoric and worn out slogans. They want a peaceful, democratic country that is open to the world. But right now an aging theocracy is still pulling the strings. They should bow out and let the young people and diplomats like yourself rule the country.
But Mr. Zarif, if Iran wants to be treated with respect then it needs to act responsibly. Iran needs to if not yet formally recognize Israel, at least stop declaiming against it. There should be no cries of death to anyone. Think peace and love instead!
Iran should also release all political prisoners from Evian prison and stop sponsoring terrorism abroad through Hezbollah.
Turkey is a good example of a Muslim country that has kept its Islamic culture and its roots but opened itself to the world.
Iran also needs to realize that all Muslims are brothers and sisters regardless of whether they are Shia or Sunni. So the obsession with this schism needs to end.
Inshallah, all this could happen quickly. And then I can visit Iran a s a tourist and spend Nowruz in Tehran.
3
I applaud the "message" from Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif. It's quite a contrast from the letter sent to Iran by newly-elected Senator Tom Cotton and 46 of his Republican colleagues as they attempt to undermine any "deal" with Iran. Mr. Zarif is literally offering an "open hand" to further engagement on issues that have us mired in endless sectarian wars against radical Sunni militants in Iraq and Syria and now Shiite rebels in Yemen. The U.S. does lack a coherent, "holistic" political vision for the region that alternates from backing Sunni Saudi Arabia and its virulent Wahhabism that spawned both al-Qaeda and ISIS in Yemen against Iranian-backed Shiite Houthis while siding with Iran and Shiite-dominated Iraq in attacking these very same Sunni terrorists. A "regional dialogue" with Iran is essential to snuffing out this religious war. But to do so, the United States must reaffirm in Constitutional principle of religious neutrality to restore its credibility as an "honest broker" for peace in the region. The alternative is to let Saudi Arabia, Israel and the Republicans lead us into a major war that consumes the oil-rich region and threatens the world's economy.
16
Zarif's eloquent rhetoric is akin to cotton candy - sugary and pleasing to the taste but with no nutritional value.
He's nothing more than a political puppet spewing the pablum of the theocracy.
He's nothing more than a political puppet spewing the pablum of the theocracy.
8
It is good that Iranian government tries to talk with western powers and tries to make their nuclear program more transparent.
But I don't understand while they are detaining Jason Rezaian an American-Iranian journalist who worked for The Washington Post in prison because they think he is a spy (which is a lie) other newspapers like NYtimes publish their articles. I really don't understand and cannot accept it. At least I think journalists should back up each other.
But I don't understand while they are detaining Jason Rezaian an American-Iranian journalist who worked for The Washington Post in prison because they think he is a spy (which is a lie) other newspapers like NYtimes publish their articles. I really don't understand and cannot accept it. At least I think journalists should back up each other.
6
"Western powers: please stop meddling in the power structures of gulf states so that we can consolidate regional power ourselves."
6
Some comments have expressed skepticism, because Minister Zarif did not mention the Israel and Palestine situation.
Perhaps I am pollyannish (at a minimum, I am a "half-full" person) but in diplomacy, what is unsaid is often more significant than the words that are spoken.
For years, Iran has made public statements focusing solely on the (very important) issue of Palestine and Israel. And for years, many in the West have criticized such singular focus as constituting blame shifting and distraction on the part of the Iranian government.
So now, when I see a communication from a high ranking Iranian official that does not focus on the Israel and Palestine issue, I am actually hopeful that Iran is indeed ready to rejoin the community of nations and focus on multiple important regional and global issues.
Perhaps I am pollyannish (at a minimum, I am a "half-full" person) but in diplomacy, what is unsaid is often more significant than the words that are spoken.
For years, Iran has made public statements focusing solely on the (very important) issue of Palestine and Israel. And for years, many in the West have criticized such singular focus as constituting blame shifting and distraction on the part of the Iranian government.
So now, when I see a communication from a high ranking Iranian official that does not focus on the Israel and Palestine issue, I am actually hopeful that Iran is indeed ready to rejoin the community of nations and focus on multiple important regional and global issues.
12
Reading this "moderate, reasonable, soothing" con job propaganda piece by the Iranian Foreign Minister, I am reminded that even Hitler could sound moderate, reasonable, soothing, when he was conning Chamberlain and Daladier.
15
I'm thinking this column was aimed more at Europe than the U.S. Zarif needs to peel off European support for the sanctions. Once that's done, sanctions are history.
1
I am extremely proud as an Iranian that Iran represent the voice reason and negotiation in International diplomacy. Iranian had been pragmatic, constructive and they deserve respect by others countries.
17
They know us better than we know ourselves. This guy is playing us like a fiddle. It is scary that so many people commenting in here think this guy believes a word of what he says. How can they ignore their actions and gullibly fall for their words? Then, of course, we see the mandatory US bashing whenever the subject of another country comes up. Except we are talking about Iran, not the left's version of past US history.
17
20 years ago, an American, Timothy McVeigh, killed 168 Americans in Oklahoma City. Not one American hostage from the the Iranian take over of the US Embassy in Tehran was killed. Yet, we've let that incident, the hostage crisis, frame our entire foreign policy in the Mideast.
74
Not being given much reason to consider the following reasonable, am I wrong to read a reference to Israel in Mr. Zarif's comment about smaller nations. But, if so, what broader dialogue is possible without an official acknowledgement of Israel's legitimacy as a nation and Jewish homeland, and an agreement that religious tolerance is foundational to any type of peace?
7
A HOLISTIC foreign policy ?!!! That's what this mouthpiece for the Mullahs is selling ? Perhaps he can explain how ordering the Iranian Guard into Syria to oversee the slaughter of over 200,000 civilians is holistic. Or ordering Hizbullah to assassinate Hariri, the democratically elected leader of Lebanon, and then ordering them to stage a military coup.., or the Shia death squads they are funding in Iraq... or the Houthis that they funded and armed for the coup and impending civil war in Yemen...
The Mullahs are cynically and blatantly consolidating their power over the Middle East and have nothing less than a Shiite domination over the region, with their eyes on the Saudi oil as well, to consolidate their grasp of the world's energy market, in mind.
Anyone who believes Zarif's transparent snake oil pitch has only their own ignorance, or gullibility to blame. And the Mullahs will take either, as they smirk at the wooden awkwardness of Western diplomacy and how it fails to adequately deal with this type of manipulation and machiavellian planning.
Don't believe me. Google the facts I mentioned. Even aside from nukes, these are the leading exporters and supporters of murder in the Middle East. ISIS is evil, but a paltry organization in comparison.
The Mullahs are cynically and blatantly consolidating their power over the Middle East and have nothing less than a Shiite domination over the region, with their eyes on the Saudi oil as well, to consolidate their grasp of the world's energy market, in mind.
Anyone who believes Zarif's transparent snake oil pitch has only their own ignorance, or gullibility to blame. And the Mullahs will take either, as they smirk at the wooden awkwardness of Western diplomacy and how it fails to adequately deal with this type of manipulation and machiavellian planning.
Don't believe me. Google the facts I mentioned. Even aside from nukes, these are the leading exporters and supporters of murder in the Middle East. ISIS is evil, but a paltry organization in comparison.
13
The more I hear from this guy, the better I like him. He recognizes in Mr. Obama a fellow devotee of the late, great Roger Fisher of Camp David Accords, Harvard Law and "Getting to Yes" fame.
Principled negotiation, that does Not rely on trust, but that Does focus on the respective Interests of the Parties -- the various needs of each bargainer that animate their respective positions -- is the way to go here (and elsewhere).
Let us take this opportunity to work with somebody who so well understands, articulates and approaches the matters at hand.
Principled negotiation, that does Not rely on trust, but that Does focus on the respective Interests of the Parties -- the various needs of each bargainer that animate their respective positions -- is the way to go here (and elsewhere).
Let us take this opportunity to work with somebody who so well understands, articulates and approaches the matters at hand.
17
Well, what do you know, one of America's most treasured demons comes to us with common sense that addresses our most chronic foreign policy problem.
I hope we haven't been too brainwashed to not reach for this outstretched hand. If you read Middle East history -- Lawrence, Churchill, the Shah's bio , just to begin with -- you realize that we have been reaping what we sowed. Or as a Palestinian taxi driver told me: "You are an elephant trying to stomp a fly. Bin Laden is US Made." As was Khoumeni. And is Isis.
It's been so lose-lose, unless you were an arms dealer or paid by them to influence US policies. But maybe we've hit bottom and now a few reasonable leaders, Obama and this guy, can find a route, more difficult than Yosemite without ropes, out of this perpetual battle. Or at least take what JFK's always looked for: "the important first step."
On February 28th, 2006, as W's crew's intentions for an air strike on Iran were disrupted by journalist Si Hersh's revelations, I had coffee with the Iranian ambassador to France at his embassy in Paris -- surrounded by lots of carpets.
I asked him: " If the United States wasn't always Israel's pawn, could our countries ever be friends?"
He reeled back, shocked at the notion, then threw out his hands and exclaimed: "WELL, WHY NOT?!"
"Ever want to visit the United States? I asked.
"Yes," he said, "I would like to visit a place in Southern California, a place that we call Lost Irangeles."
I hope we haven't been too brainwashed to not reach for this outstretched hand. If you read Middle East history -- Lawrence, Churchill, the Shah's bio , just to begin with -- you realize that we have been reaping what we sowed. Or as a Palestinian taxi driver told me: "You are an elephant trying to stomp a fly. Bin Laden is US Made." As was Khoumeni. And is Isis.
It's been so lose-lose, unless you were an arms dealer or paid by them to influence US policies. But maybe we've hit bottom and now a few reasonable leaders, Obama and this guy, can find a route, more difficult than Yosemite without ropes, out of this perpetual battle. Or at least take what JFK's always looked for: "the important first step."
On February 28th, 2006, as W's crew's intentions for an air strike on Iran were disrupted by journalist Si Hersh's revelations, I had coffee with the Iranian ambassador to France at his embassy in Paris -- surrounded by lots of carpets.
I asked him: " If the United States wasn't always Israel's pawn, could our countries ever be friends?"
He reeled back, shocked at the notion, then threw out his hands and exclaimed: "WELL, WHY NOT?!"
"Ever want to visit the United States? I asked.
"Yes," he said, "I would like to visit a place in Southern California, a place that we call Lost Irangeles."
11
Very rational....sweet tak....but the fact remains that the Mullah led government vows the annihilation of Israel...and with this on their docket, Zarif's Op_Ed rings hollow and ingenuous....not to be trusted.
11
The fact that so many on this blog remind us that some Iranians chant “Death to America” is NOT an accident. It is a talking point for the right and the propagandist much in the same way that “wipe Israel off the map” claim has shaped our attitudes toward the entire nuclear debate and the negotiations with Iran. Iranians chanting death to America is hardly cause for concern to this average American. Could we say the same about Iranians when they hear our political figures talk about bombing Iran by way of policy on top of crippling sanctions? Add to that perspective the fact that we have attacked and occupied half of their neighbors and support every single country in the region that opposes them!
We signed treaties with the Soviet Union even thought the same fear mongering went on in any debate over our relations; but in the end we signed treaties because we feared the Soviet Union and understood we HAD TO negotiate or face mutual annihilation. The fear-mongering in the case of Iran may not be overcome because we really do not fear Iran. We say Iranians understands and respect only force because in fact that is how we are.
We signed treaties with the Soviet Union even thought the same fear mongering went on in any debate over our relations; but in the end we signed treaties because we feared the Soviet Union and understood we HAD TO negotiate or face mutual annihilation. The fear-mongering in the case of Iran may not be overcome because we really do not fear Iran. We say Iranians understands and respect only force because in fact that is how we are.
10
I dare say, citizens of the United States are dubious about Iran's truthfulness, and want sanctions to be lifted very gradually, as Iran's veracity can be proven. I'd say most of us support the idea of "snap-back." Iran, You have a lot to prove to the world. Silly, "tough" talk will get you nowhere. Walk the walk.
7
Israel offered an olive branch to Iran, amazingly by non other than Bibi Netanyahu, by declaring to go along with nuclear deal, if Iran stops all propaganda on right of Israel to exist. (CNN April3, 2015 )
(CNN)—Slamming world powers' framework nuclear deal with Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday demanded that any final deal include a "clear and unambiguous Iranian recognition of Israel's right to exist."
Iran was the second Islamic country, after Turkey, to recognize Israel as a nation on March 14, 1950. To resolve issues diplomatically, to avoid warmongers from gaining the upper hand, it's only prudent for Iran to extend an olive branch of its own to Israel.
World, away from fanatic warmongers, is blissful when people can communicate and cooperate.
(CNN)—Slamming world powers' framework nuclear deal with Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday demanded that any final deal include a "clear and unambiguous Iranian recognition of Israel's right to exist."
Iran was the second Islamic country, after Turkey, to recognize Israel as a nation on March 14, 1950. To resolve issues diplomatically, to avoid warmongers from gaining the upper hand, it's only prudent for Iran to extend an olive branch of its own to Israel.
World, away from fanatic warmongers, is blissful when people can communicate and cooperate.
5
Talking is always easier provided the other guy doesn't put a knife to your throat. Let's talk. The mention of a ceasefire in Yemen is an excellent start. I don't understand why Saudi Arabia and Iran can't come to some equitable terms: Isis threatens all. Obviously, Iran's involvement in Syria and Lebanon must be discussed. Why not ask for a complete ceasefire? Ask Hezbolla to ceasefire and you'll have the ear of moderate Israelis: win the moderates and the hardliners will feel the ground turn to sand under their feet.
This is a good first step. I'm sure a smart guy like John Kerry is already working tirelessly on it already.
This is a good first step. I'm sure a smart guy like John Kerry is already working tirelessly on it already.
2
FM Zarif once again demonstrates a formidable diplomatic prowess which cannot be ignored by the GCC or the US. The intellectual lightweights in the US Congress are delusional if they think they are going to be able to stop the process whereby Iran assumes its normal role in regional and world affairs. These nitwits-Tom Cotton comes to mind-believe their own propaganda and are standing in front of the same oncoming freight train that the US stood in front of when it attempted to stop the tsunami of the AIIB.
A harbinger was the visit of Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop to Tehran. She will not be the last. It will be interesting to watch the Cottons, McCains and the Grahams lie down on those tracks and wake up in the political hospital for delusional would-be empire builders.
A harbinger was the visit of Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop to Tehran. She will not be the last. It will be interesting to watch the Cottons, McCains and the Grahams lie down on those tracks and wake up in the political hospital for delusional would-be empire builders.
8
Great words, excellent writing. But let us not forget that the regime in Iran is an extreme radical shiite regime (and I am not talking about the people of Iran). They will do or say anything to get out from under the imposed economic sanctions. Yes, we need to negotiate. But ultimately, Iran wants to be a nuclear force in the region, and we all know it. So let's be careful, because once the cat is out of the bag, there is no going back.
7
Sounds like there's more range of opinion in the Iranian leadership than before. Since this was approved from the top it is important. A shift? Who knows. Worth a risk? Sure. Nothing to give away here.
6
Zarif is an academic specializing in international relations, who lived in the US, in San Francisco and Denver, for 11 years (ages 17 - 28) while in prep school (Drew Academy), undergraduate (SF State) and graduate school (University of Denver. He is rational, well-educated, and understands our country and political culture far better than all but a few of us understand Iran, and we are lucky to have such a person across the table as Obama tries to shape an Iran policy that serves US and world interests better, in an environment of Republican chest-puffing sanctimony and Netanyahu- and Sheldon-Adelson-financed anti-Iran propagandizing.
Likewise with Iranian minister of energy Ali Akbar Salehi, PhD in nuclear physics from MIT in 1977, also a graduate of the American University of Beirut. Salehi was a grad student at MIT at the same time his American counterpart, US energy secretary Ernest Moniz, was a young professor there. A relationship and friendship that greatly aided recent negotiations.
Likewise with Iranian minister of energy Ali Akbar Salehi, PhD in nuclear physics from MIT in 1977, also a graduate of the American University of Beirut. Salehi was a grad student at MIT at the same time his American counterpart, US energy secretary Ernest Moniz, was a young professor there. A relationship and friendship that greatly aided recent negotiations.
16
Mr. Zarif, I am not sure you realize this, but the NY Times editorial page is actually not The Onion. I understand your confusion, as the editorial board often cannot be taken seriously. But if your intention was to write a satirical piece, as is evident by what you have just written, I suggest sending your writing elsewhere.
8
I heartily applaud the Times for printing this important pronouncement and explication from the Iranian Foreign Minister. It is carefully-tailored to the American audience and for that a helpful contribution to the cessation of hostile atmospherics between the two nations, who have been at odds for decades beyond memory and reasonable understanding.
11
Maybe it's time for Mr. Zarif to address a joint session of Congress.
12
I see Iran is being singled out as the culprit in the Middle East atrocities; what about Saudi Arabia,( the US "ally") who is a great patron of all terrorist groups in the region? Why nobody admits that ISIS and Taliban and Al Quada are all Saudi inventions? Have your priorities straight folks; instead of pointing fingers at Iran, point your fingers at the US congress and its support for Saudi monarchs; they are the real terrorists of the Middle East.
14
"Iranian foreign policy is holistic in nature"
Sure, Hezbollah in Syria, Shiite death brigades in Iraq, extremists rebels in Yemen, etc. "Holistic" is what comes to mind.
With articles like these it is always helpful to remember the prescient words of Ms Dawson to Batman "It's not what you do inside, like suppress women, kill gays, jail journalist, suppress free speech, and yell death to America and Israel at every opportunity that counts, but what you do internationally like try to connive and bully your way to a regional nuclear dictatorial superpower while supporting Shiite extremism and any available terrorist organization that will help your agenda that defines you"*
*I think that was the jest of what she said, I might have missed a word here or there.
Sure, Hezbollah in Syria, Shiite death brigades in Iraq, extremists rebels in Yemen, etc. "Holistic" is what comes to mind.
With articles like these it is always helpful to remember the prescient words of Ms Dawson to Batman "It's not what you do inside, like suppress women, kill gays, jail journalist, suppress free speech, and yell death to America and Israel at every opportunity that counts, but what you do internationally like try to connive and bully your way to a regional nuclear dictatorial superpower while supporting Shiite extremism and any available terrorist organization that will help your agenda that defines you"*
*I think that was the jest of what she said, I might have missed a word here or there.
9
Nice try! We should let the Iranians dominate the Middle East in exchange for delaying their nuclear ambitions! NOT!
What about Hamas, Hezbollah, Boko Haram, the Muslim Brotherhood, and the panoply of other Iranian supported killers in the Middle East and North Africa?
What about peace for Israel?
What about Hamas, Hezbollah, Boko Haram, the Muslim Brotherhood, and the panoply of other Iranian supported killers in the Middle East and North Africa?
What about peace for Israel?
11
Zarif says some nice things but is conventionality vague and conspicuously selective in his highlighting of the challenges that face the region and, by extension, the world. But there is yet a larger problem here. His hopeful words are in direct conflict with the actions of the government he represents. In some cases, Yemen for example, the conflict is so great as to elicit a chuckle and a sensation that one's leg is about to be pulled out of its socket.
But how do we deal with such duplicity when we yearn dearly for peace and reconciliation? We must be careful not to fool ourselves lest we find ourselves in a more precarious position down the road after granting unwarranted concessions and reaching agreements that are later betrayed. Likewise, we should not close the door on peace under the assumption that Iran is unchangeable.
It seems to me that the most fruitful thing to do is to respond to Mr. Zarif directly by pointing out what we see are the inconsistencies in his plea and requesting that Iran back up their words with actions even if those actions. Iran might, for example, take steps to cease and desist from supporting the terrorism they claim to abhor. Until then our negotiations with Iran will continue to occur under the darkness of a farcical shadow.
But how do we deal with such duplicity when we yearn dearly for peace and reconciliation? We must be careful not to fool ourselves lest we find ourselves in a more precarious position down the road after granting unwarranted concessions and reaching agreements that are later betrayed. Likewise, we should not close the door on peace under the assumption that Iran is unchangeable.
It seems to me that the most fruitful thing to do is to respond to Mr. Zarif directly by pointing out what we see are the inconsistencies in his plea and requesting that Iran back up their words with actions even if those actions. Iran might, for example, take steps to cease and desist from supporting the terrorism they claim to abhor. Until then our negotiations with Iran will continue to occur under the darkness of a farcical shadow.
5
"..combating extremism and sectarianism; ensuring freedom of navigation and the free flow of oil and other resources; and protection of the environment. "
Impressive list Mr. Zarif. Would Iran ever bind itself to an agreement to allow freedom of religion? Even for the Baha'is?
Without freedom of religion do any of those other solution stand a chance in the Middle East?
Impressive list Mr. Zarif. Would Iran ever bind itself to an agreement to allow freedom of religion? Even for the Baha'is?
Without freedom of religion do any of those other solution stand a chance in the Middle East?
5
this is a fair conclusion of event from Javad Zarif, he seems to be a structural liberalist and he is using diplomacy to achieve what he believe. by a pragmatist like Rouhani who is uniting all the political factions in Iran and a acquired foreign minister like Zarif Iran will be capable to play a large part in region; and the USA's politicians has already comprehend this trend and they just have to admit it. and Iran is not requiring any kind of upheavals in the region, a political entity with this kind of stability must be out of his mind to stir up terrorism in his neighbors but foreign interference as Zarif mentioned is a important variable that should be more considered.
6
I agree. The US and Iran have a number of common interests in the Middle East. Obviously, there are many things we don't agree on, but let's begin by talking about those things we do agree on, first and foremost the elimination of the Islamic State and Al Qaeda, and go from there.
Dialog with Iran may well fail, but we won't know if we don't try.
Dialog with Iran may well fail, but we won't know if we don't try.
6
Mr. Zarif is disingenuous and duplicitous.
In all his talk about the need for international cooperation and respect of sovereignty, where is his renunciation of Iran's constant calls for the destruction of Israel? When do the government-led "death to America" rallies end? Who has threatened war more, the US Congress against Iran or Iran against Israel?
Zarif can lament the "disrespect" shown to Iran by America and its allies, but until Iran ends their own destructive rhetoric they have no rights to claim the higher ground. They need the world more than the world needs them, and the world should continue to turn their backs on Iran until Iran recognizes Israel and halts their war rhetoric against Israel and America.
In all his talk about the need for international cooperation and respect of sovereignty, where is his renunciation of Iran's constant calls for the destruction of Israel? When do the government-led "death to America" rallies end? Who has threatened war more, the US Congress against Iran or Iran against Israel?
Zarif can lament the "disrespect" shown to Iran by America and its allies, but until Iran ends their own destructive rhetoric they have no rights to claim the higher ground. They need the world more than the world needs them, and the world should continue to turn their backs on Iran until Iran recognizes Israel and halts their war rhetoric against Israel and America.
5
Yearh, why don't you start the process by denouncing hate language aimed at Israel and Jews, then next stop supporting terror groups whose main mission is to attack Israel and Jews. Shouldn't a prerequrisite be accepting responsibility for support of past hateful acts agains Jews and Israel. You see the problem is you sound reasonable but your country is led by fanatics!
5
This op-ed reads seems very reasonable at face value although, as we all know, sometimes individuals and leaders hide their intent behind diplomatic speech. The American people, just as the Iranians, are good decent people who pray for world peace. We are curious about the Iranian people and wish them the best.
What is troubling from a American perspective is Iran's history of funding terrorism & global spying program including imprisoning a US journalist. Israel worries about Iran's support of terrorism in the region including financial, intelligence & logistic support of Hamas, Hezbollah & Islamic Jihad in Israel. Now, Iran is leading the fight against ISIS in Iraq which concerns the Sunni civilian population.
It sounds great that Iran is the peace broker in Yemen although Saudi Arabia might have concerns about any Iranian influence on their southern border. It was reported that Senior officials from Iran negotiating the nuclear program are not completely aware of the program in its entirely thus allowing them to pass lie detector tests based on their innocence. It is not unreasonable for the members of the foreign intelligence committee within Congress to have access to all of the details of the final treaty in order to make an informed decision on lifting economic sanctions. With trust & cooperation there needs to be intelligent verification of the details of the plan. If Iran has nothing to hide, then they should understand Congress' role in American foreign policy.
What is troubling from a American perspective is Iran's history of funding terrorism & global spying program including imprisoning a US journalist. Israel worries about Iran's support of terrorism in the region including financial, intelligence & logistic support of Hamas, Hezbollah & Islamic Jihad in Israel. Now, Iran is leading the fight against ISIS in Iraq which concerns the Sunni civilian population.
It sounds great that Iran is the peace broker in Yemen although Saudi Arabia might have concerns about any Iranian influence on their southern border. It was reported that Senior officials from Iran negotiating the nuclear program are not completely aware of the program in its entirely thus allowing them to pass lie detector tests based on their innocence. It is not unreasonable for the members of the foreign intelligence committee within Congress to have access to all of the details of the final treaty in order to make an informed decision on lifting economic sanctions. With trust & cooperation there needs to be intelligent verification of the details of the plan. If Iran has nothing to hide, then they should understand Congress' role in American foreign policy.
3
So much time has been wasted away while many children in Syria and Yemen are displaced and killed, lives ruined. Politics of money and power has blinded so called leaders in the region. Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, and the so call Gulf countries have the most extreme views of westerners. Saudi Arabia is the cancer of the region with most extreme views. She silences its population with iron fist. Most ideological terrorism comes from here or is exported from here. Yet, Israel and US consider this country a friend. Fifteen of the hijackers came from here, hatred of westerners if prevalent here, yet we are somehow okay with that.
Iran on the other hand is a moderate country in many ways and a bastion of culture and stability. But because it defends the right of Palestinians and demands a solution to a problem that the world has turned away from, we have painted her as evil. Well I think we have our definition of evil reversed. If Jesus was looking at this issue, I believe he would come done on the side of the oppress too. Well, We are a christian nation, but as a whole we don't act as one.
Iran on the other hand is a moderate country in many ways and a bastion of culture and stability. But because it defends the right of Palestinians and demands a solution to a problem that the world has turned away from, we have painted her as evil. Well I think we have our definition of evil reversed. If Jesus was looking at this issue, I believe he would come done on the side of the oppress too. Well, We are a christian nation, but as a whole we don't act as one.
11
Netanyahu deserves criticism but the problems of the Middle East do not lie with him. The governments of the Middle East have failed to solve the problems of their people. They have wasted their resoures on weapons and failed to deal with the deep religious divide between Sunnis and Shites. The foreign minister fails to blame Iran for its continued support of the Assad government in Syria. This support has led to the destruction of Syria and thousands of civilian deaths. Iran is a guilty party to this blood bath. I agree we must engage Iran.
3
For sure we in the US are quick to always denounce Iran as a force to be reckoned with - but only in the negative sense that we insist must be opposed. I like the thrust of this opinion that makes the case that Iran is a force, for sure, but one that also has the great potential to work for the betterment of things than strictly to the detriment on things. No doubt this last point comes from the West's presumptuous perspective that it is the only force on earth capable of "good".
If this world has any hope in surviving, there are some parties that need to be reminded and to learn that the world survives only when everyone on it does, and not simply the chosen few that would like to feel it is their special place to reign supreme over everything and everyone, and doing so with only their own unique and self-indulging points of view as to how the world should work and who should reap its benefits.
We should welcome Iran's help and be grateful rather than resentful of it because maybe it may feel embarrassing to those who would like to pretend that they and only they had all the answers, when in fact they don't. That's too bad for them, but the world for the rest of us is not at all about them so why must we have to be saddled with their insecurity and feelings of inferiority? When maybe there's someone else in a better position to do something to calm a conflicted region because they understand first hand what's going on there, unlike those foreign and distant to it.
If this world has any hope in surviving, there are some parties that need to be reminded and to learn that the world survives only when everyone on it does, and not simply the chosen few that would like to feel it is their special place to reign supreme over everything and everyone, and doing so with only their own unique and self-indulging points of view as to how the world should work and who should reap its benefits.
We should welcome Iran's help and be grateful rather than resentful of it because maybe it may feel embarrassing to those who would like to pretend that they and only they had all the answers, when in fact they don't. That's too bad for them, but the world for the rest of us is not at all about them so why must we have to be saddled with their insecurity and feelings of inferiority? When maybe there's someone else in a better position to do something to calm a conflicted region because they understand first hand what's going on there, unlike those foreign and distant to it.
13
Zarif starts off his op-Ed with an obvious lie and the rest follows suit. Iran has yet to allow the IAEA unfettered access, as required by the NPT, to all its nuclear sites. It also refuses to come clean on its past military-related nuclear development history. It's hard to believe that peaceful nuclear sites need to be hardened and secreted underground, let alone built in absolute secrecy, which has been Iran's modus operandi.
I have no doubt that Iran wants to talk about other issues important to it such as ISIS. It knows that while talks go on, no military options against it will be undertaken. In a way, it is reminiscent of Imperial Japan's tactic in the run up to Pearl Harbor.
Noticeably absent from Zarif's list, of course, is ending its support of terror groups such as Hezbollah (which holds Lebanon hostage to its Shiite master's whim) and stopping its genocidal rhetoric against Israel.
In writing as he does, Zarif shows his utter contempt for the intelligence of readers of the NY Times.
I have no doubt that Iran wants to talk about other issues important to it such as ISIS. It knows that while talks go on, no military options against it will be undertaken. In a way, it is reminiscent of Imperial Japan's tactic in the run up to Pearl Harbor.
Noticeably absent from Zarif's list, of course, is ending its support of terror groups such as Hezbollah (which holds Lebanon hostage to its Shiite master's whim) and stopping its genocidal rhetoric against Israel.
In writing as he does, Zarif shows his utter contempt for the intelligence of readers of the NY Times.
9
Not sure I get why this article was written now. Get the nuclear deal done and then worry about Yemen. The firm and resilient Iranian people would appreciate that more.
2
Does Iran's respect for the territorial integrity of all states extend to Israel?
And one can't help observing, if only incidentally, the brouhaha attending Netanhayu's wish to name Israel the Jewish state - even as Mr. Zarif's country remains perfectly free to ascribe Islamic state titular status to itself, and with worldwide approbation.
And one can't help observing, if only incidentally, the brouhaha attending Netanhayu's wish to name Israel the Jewish state - even as Mr. Zarif's country remains perfectly free to ascribe Islamic state titular status to itself, and with worldwide approbation.
7
Finally someone in troubled Middle East stated the truth. Mr. Zarif is a diplomat.
In contrast, the Prime Minister of Israel, and our 22 allies in Middle East don do not have a single diplomat in power! That is why Iran has been an Island of stability while the rest in Middle East is in turmoil.
Arab nations only know how to lose their assets buying from the US that they do not even know how to operate them!
We need an ally with a brain and heart, not stupid and coldblooded who send us 15 terrorists, for example from Saudi Arabia, to create 9/11 and ISIS for the sole benefit of Israel.
Americans did not fight for independence from Britain only to lose it to Israel and Saudi Arabia!
In contrast, the Prime Minister of Israel, and our 22 allies in Middle East don do not have a single diplomat in power! That is why Iran has been an Island of stability while the rest in Middle East is in turmoil.
Arab nations only know how to lose their assets buying from the US that they do not even know how to operate them!
We need an ally with a brain and heart, not stupid and coldblooded who send us 15 terrorists, for example from Saudi Arabia, to create 9/11 and ISIS for the sole benefit of Israel.
Americans did not fight for independence from Britain only to lose it to Israel and Saudi Arabia!
20
This piece is partly disingenuous. The fact is, Iran is the brains and muscle behind Hezbollah, Hamas, Assad and other destabilizing forces in the very region where it claims to be striving to take an active role in resolving these conflicts.
11
You sound like a child. Who created the mess in Syria? Do you have any ideas? Iran is only helping the legitimate government of Syria defend itself against foreign intervention by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, the U.S. and Israel. As Chomsky said yesterday in an interview (paraphrasing)," When the U.S. creates a mess anywhere it is stabilization, when anyone defends against American interference, it is destabilization."
1
The Left says Right isn't offering any alternative plan regarding Iran. But the way forward is obvious - containment. It worked after WW II and works even better in this era of globalization.
The pressure on countries to engage only increases the effectiveness of a containment strategy.
America left 20k troops in S. Korea after the Korean War. Eighteen thousand Marines in Okinawa and thousands more in Germany and Italy since WW II.
Yet with all the turmol in the Middle East we pulled all our troops out of Iraq? There is simply no historical justification for not leaving a stabilizing troop level in Iraq. Now Iran wants us to lift the sanctions now that they've back filled the vacuum.
Swallow your pride and correct the mistakes made before it's too late.
The pressure on countries to engage only increases the effectiveness of a containment strategy.
America left 20k troops in S. Korea after the Korean War. Eighteen thousand Marines in Okinawa and thousands more in Germany and Italy since WW II.
Yet with all the turmol in the Middle East we pulled all our troops out of Iraq? There is simply no historical justification for not leaving a stabilizing troop level in Iraq. Now Iran wants us to lift the sanctions now that they've back filled the vacuum.
Swallow your pride and correct the mistakes made before it's too late.
1
This letter is irreconcilable with Iran's actions. On the same day, the Revolutionary Guard says no to inspections agreed upon in the framework agreement. There's no mention of Iran's history of threats to Israel. They sponsor terrorism all over the Mideast and elsewhere. To believe this is to stick one's head in the sand. Does that mean war is the only other outcome? Iran is betting that is America's fear and they can put one over on us while we pretend the facts are other than what they are. One of the most oil-rich countries in the world needs peaceful nuclear energy development. Nonsense.
5
"regional dialogue should be based on generally recognized principles and shared objectives, notably respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states"
I would like to ask Mr. Zarif for his comments on the following relevant topics:
a) Iranian involvement in Lebanon b) Iranian involvement in Syria c) The Responsibility to Protect - a proposed norm that sovereignty is not an absolute right, and that states forfeit aspects of their sovereignty when they fail to protect their populations from mass atrocity crimes and human rights violations.
I would like to ask Mr. Zarif for his comments on the following relevant topics:
a) Iranian involvement in Lebanon b) Iranian involvement in Syria c) The Responsibility to Protect - a proposed norm that sovereignty is not an absolute right, and that states forfeit aspects of their sovereignty when they fail to protect their populations from mass atrocity crimes and human rights violations.
1
Yada, yada, yada, perhaps Iran and its neighbors need to work out their issues without Western interference. With a world becoming less dependent on Middle East Oil, it is time for Middle Eastern Nations to make peace with their neighbors and Israel. Let the Muslim Theocrats resolve their religious differences and bring peace and prosperity to their faithful followers. The Muslim fratricide must end and great efforts made to improve the lives of the people currently living in daily fear.
4
You are holding four American citizens in your prisons, including former US Marine Amir Mirza Hekmati.
As a sign of good faith on Iran's part, their sentences should be commuted and they should be returned to the United States immediately.
As a sign of good faith on Iran's part, their sentences should be commuted and they should be returned to the United States immediately.
10
A little over 6 years ago, president Obama sent the following message to Iran in his inaugural speech: “To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”
At the time, US army was involved in two wars on the Iranian borders, US navy was in absolute control of the Persian Gulf, and the US spies were actively promoting regime change in Iran. Many Iranians doubted president Obama’s sincerity, and the feud continued.
it seems that today the Iranian FM is finally reciprocating. There are many reasons to doubt their sincerity. But if our doubts prevent us from unclenching our fist, we will be on the wrong side of history missing an opportunity that will not present itself again for the foreseeable future. These Iranian diplomats are open to deal making and the Iranian regime is receptive to a change of behavior. We have achieved more with less in our foreign policy before. This is a challenge we cannot decline.
At the time, US army was involved in two wars on the Iranian borders, US navy was in absolute control of the Persian Gulf, and the US spies were actively promoting regime change in Iran. Many Iranians doubted president Obama’s sincerity, and the feud continued.
it seems that today the Iranian FM is finally reciprocating. There are many reasons to doubt their sincerity. But if our doubts prevent us from unclenching our fist, we will be on the wrong side of history missing an opportunity that will not present itself again for the foreseeable future. These Iranian diplomats are open to deal making and the Iranian regime is receptive to a change of behavior. We have achieved more with less in our foreign policy before. This is a challenge we cannot decline.
20
It would be comic if it weren't so serious, how easily smooth words such as these, perfectly attuned to the western ear, can fool the uninformed or the gullible.
18
We won't confuse you with facts from now on.
The United States should listen to Minister Zarif. He holds a Ph.d. in International Relations from the prestigious program at the University of Denver. He was Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, and has a wealth of experience on the international scene.
Most telling and most accurate is Minister Zarif's statement "Our rationale is that the nuclear issue has been a symptom, not a cause, of mistrust and conflict." This is a gentle way of saying that the concern over Iran's 40+ years of nuclear development, none of which has been a secret, was a "Manufactured Crisis," to quite the title of historian Gareth Porter's masterful book about the U.S. view of Iran's nuclear program.
The U.S. press has created a drama about Iran and its neighbors that is overblown and inaccurate. The fact is that Iran maintains diplomatic relations with all of its neighbors, including Saudi Arabia. The rulers of the Gulf States are actually less concerned about Iran than they are with the Shi'ite minorities (in Bahrain, the majority) within their own countries whom they see as a threat.
Iran has assiduously avoided direct involvement with the ethnic problems on the Arabian peninsula, some of which are centuries old--like the Zaidi Houthis in Yemen, who ruled that nation for centuries before a civil war predating the Iranian Revolution kindled the current strife.
Iran is stable, pragmatic and replete with a young, educated and progressive population. It is a key to regional stability.
Most telling and most accurate is Minister Zarif's statement "Our rationale is that the nuclear issue has been a symptom, not a cause, of mistrust and conflict." This is a gentle way of saying that the concern over Iran's 40+ years of nuclear development, none of which has been a secret, was a "Manufactured Crisis," to quite the title of historian Gareth Porter's masterful book about the U.S. view of Iran's nuclear program.
The U.S. press has created a drama about Iran and its neighbors that is overblown and inaccurate. The fact is that Iran maintains diplomatic relations with all of its neighbors, including Saudi Arabia. The rulers of the Gulf States are actually less concerned about Iran than they are with the Shi'ite minorities (in Bahrain, the majority) within their own countries whom they see as a threat.
Iran has assiduously avoided direct involvement with the ethnic problems on the Arabian peninsula, some of which are centuries old--like the Zaidi Houthis in Yemen, who ruled that nation for centuries before a civil war predating the Iranian Revolution kindled the current strife.
Iran is stable, pragmatic and replete with a young, educated and progressive population. It is a key to regional stability.
26
There were saying the same things about Hitler and his carnivorous sheep.
And Asad is an eye doctor. Does it means he has good vision? What does PhD in political science has to do with Iran's continuous threats to destroy Israel, and the calls "death to America" in every gathering?
1
Here's are two suggestions for 'a regional dialogue': recognize Israel, stop financing terror organisations. Simple. Won't cost a penny. You can Tweet your resolutions for the whole world to see.
20
Recognizing "Israel" is a fool's errand. Israel is not a legitimate country since it is the only entity in the world claiming to be a "state" that has no defined borders. Its area of control is mostly based on stolen lands.
As for financing "terror" organizations, again you are talking nonsense. Hezbollah and Hamas are not terrorist groups. They were formed to fight the terrorism of Israel in Lebanon and Palestine. Defending your country is not terrorism.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, the U.S. and even Israel are sponsoring terrorists in Syria and Iraq. By your standards, that is perfectly fine, I guess.
As for financing "terror" organizations, again you are talking nonsense. Hezbollah and Hamas are not terrorist groups. They were formed to fight the terrorism of Israel in Lebanon and Palestine. Defending your country is not terrorism.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, the U.S. and even Israel are sponsoring terrorists in Syria and Iraq. By your standards, that is perfectly fine, I guess.
1
Yes, Iran should recognize Israel. And the are willing to do as soon Israel would pull out of West Bank. Can you arrange that?
1
Ben! People like you, so deranged about how the world works, always bring the vacuous and tired phrase as in "recognize Israel" and all will be dandy. A manufactured and perpetuated lie. When will Israel recognize The Palestinians as people. When will the apartheid, racism and pure civil rights abuse and crime by Israelis to Palestinians stop. How about that?
2
Zarif is right about a country's sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence. These are not unreasonable demands but a sovereign country's right. It is their borders which have been intruded and bombed. The "Death to America, Death to Israel" rhetoric is long past, along with their crazy Ahmadiinajad. The Iranians have chosen a pragmatic man Rouhani as President. They have negotiated a framework for a future deal. And this is a tentative agreement with five other countries! And about the mayhem in the Persian Gulf region - is'nt it a fact. If Iran has been interfering in the region, what about Saudi Arabia? It is Saudi Arabia's support to Sunnis in the region like the ISIS which is causing the chaos and terror. If Iran has been destabilizing the region what has been our role? If we are just obsessed by their nuclear activity and avoid a deal, that will only make them more determined about getting the bomb and then Israel's prophecy ( for a decade, now ) about an Iranian bomb will really come true. Then all the present mayhem will pale in comparison. We ( Iran and us ) have at least a shot now. Let's not blow it thanks to our Congress and Israel. Let's get out of a region where we know nothing about. If Iran wants to counter-balance Saudi Arabia, so be it. It's in their neck of the words anyway. Why do we have to waste our precious resources on wars which seems to have no end. And let's also remember, Russia is eagerly waiting in the wings.
21
Death to American Death to Israel long past? Seriously?
1
because we make money from wars and making money is the goal
1
Are we to understand that for once we had some adults (intellectually) in a room to come up with reasons and ways and means to stop the madness of war; and that finally we sent in the adults too to discus and negotiate with intelligence.
Thank you Mr. President and Secretary Kerry to be just that, you make us proud.
Time for us to take Mr. Zarif on his words and work with Iran to resolve some of the longest problems of Middle East.
It is breadth of fresh air to listen to Mr. Zarif as compared to the Arab yelling and screamings.
Thank you Mr. President and Secretary Kerry to be just that, you make us proud.
Time for us to take Mr. Zarif on his words and work with Iran to resolve some of the longest problems of Middle East.
It is breadth of fresh air to listen to Mr. Zarif as compared to the Arab yelling and screamings.
21
I thank NYT for publishing this piece by Mr. Zarif, the foreign minister of Iran.
After reading many articles from the opposing camp, mainly Israel, I have been longing to see what the Iranians are saying/thinking about the nuclear issue.
I am sure there will be many who will immediately say that what the Iranian say and what they actually think are not the same. But if we assume that the Israelis are not prone to such deceit, then we owe the courtesy to the Iranians, who, by no stretch of any imagination, are just a bunch of nomads running around with Kalashnikovs on their shoulders, to assume they are also honest and are saying and thinking the same thing.
Incidentally, I don't think there was any mention of Israel in this article. Or did I miss it?
So, again, thank you NYT.
After reading many articles from the opposing camp, mainly Israel, I have been longing to see what the Iranians are saying/thinking about the nuclear issue.
I am sure there will be many who will immediately say that what the Iranian say and what they actually think are not the same. But if we assume that the Israelis are not prone to such deceit, then we owe the courtesy to the Iranians, who, by no stretch of any imagination, are just a bunch of nomads running around with Kalashnikovs on their shoulders, to assume they are also honest and are saying and thinking the same thing.
Incidentally, I don't think there was any mention of Israel in this article. Or did I miss it?
So, again, thank you NYT.
17
You did no miss it. Israel has not been mentioned and the calls "death to Israel" are as loud as before. I do not believe a word Zarif is saying. lying to infidels (all non-Muslims) is a command in Islam, Shia and Sunna alike.
You read an article like this, and you realize how far our media and media pundits fall short of analyzing the news of the day. Not that I trust or agree with everything stated in this article, but, at a minimum, the level of thinking in the article frames what I would consider a worthwhile dialogue on middle east problems. What we get on Fox or CNN or MSNBC are snippets of random opinions from random minds --- if there is a plane crash, forget CNN, there will be no time for even those random thoughts.
18
To find the answers, it may be another case of "follow the money".
Who loses if Iran is allowed back into the company of nations?
1. Iran sits on a huge stockpile of oil that they have not been able to put on the world market for some time due to sanctions.
2. If sanctions are lifted a glut of oil will hit the already glutted market.
3. Who loses money if there is a lowered price of oil for the extended future?
4. Who contributes heavily (almost exclusively) to the Republican Congress?
5. Why is congress doing everything it can to sabotage an agreement that on its face is a win-win situation?
Who loses if Iran is allowed back into the company of nations?
1. Iran sits on a huge stockpile of oil that they have not been able to put on the world market for some time due to sanctions.
2. If sanctions are lifted a glut of oil will hit the already glutted market.
3. Who loses money if there is a lowered price of oil for the extended future?
4. Who contributes heavily (almost exclusively) to the Republican Congress?
5. Why is congress doing everything it can to sabotage an agreement that on its face is a win-win situation?
23
In his "Message from Iran", Foreign Minister Javad Zarif is basically urging for a "regional dialogue" with Saudi Arabia and its Sunni allies, without opening addressing it. Yet his plate is full. There are so many issues he wants to grapple with. This requires regional cooperation. For this to happen the regional players need to trust each other. In the absence of institutions that deal both with Iran and Saudi Arabia and promote confidence- and security-building measures, there will be little cooperation. Unlike Lebanon, Syria and Yemen, three of Iran's allies, Iran is not in the Arab League, the sole transnational institution in the region. Unfortunately the League is deeply divided!
5
Why would they be in the Arab league? They are not Arab; they're Persian.
As Foreign Minister Zarif suggests,the United Nations could serve as an umbrella organization to coordinate discussions on critical issues; discussions which, if fruitful, could be followed by joint efforts to address such issues.
______
BTW
"Iran is not in the Arab League..." — One reason might be that Iran is not an Arab state.
______
BTW
"Iran is not in the Arab League..." — One reason might be that Iran is not an Arab state.
Iran's dictatorial Theocracy is best served in the world of foreign affairs by a western-educated individual such as Zarif. Readers of this paper are educated themselves, to the extent they know nothing gets approved without the nod of Iran's Supreme Leader and we all know where he stands. End of story.
2
I would find Zarif's message more convincing if he had even mentioned Lebanon and Hezbella, speaking of respect for the integrity of boundaries of sovereign nations.
2
I read some ridiculous comments regarding Persian Gulf Region used in the main message. According to any authentic source in geography, this area has been known as Persian Gulf since the start of the written history when there was no indication of the existence of any newly established countries in that region. The whole message is not about the name of the Gulf. It rather is about co-operation and solving problems such as Al-Qaida and ISIS created by Vahhabism and the Arab royals, and bringing back peace and stability to the region.
14
Mr. Zarif displays the intelligence, smoothness, and pursuasiveness he brings to the negotiating table. What is most worrisome is our counterpart, John Kerry...talk about a mismatch.
8
If people were more informed, they would know that Iran is a Shia-majority country whereas groups such as the Taleban, ISIS, Al Qaeda, Al Shebab and Boko Haram all function on distorted Sunni ideology. While Iran has supported Hezbollah, here has never been empirical evidence to suggest that it supports Al Qaeda. Even then, this would be highly unlikely, given the rifts between the Sunni and Shia (whom many Sunnis perceive as apostates).
If people were more intelligible, they would understand that Iran fought a proxy war against Taleban-era Afghanistan and gave covert intelligence to the US, which helped overthrow the Taleban. Labeling Iran as part of the 'Axis of Evil' was the single most uneducated mistake of the Bush Administration.
In contrast, Pakistan, a US ally, was the first and last country to establish diplomatic ties with the former Taleban government. Even after 9/11, Pakistan refused to renege political support for the Taleban (pls read up on this) until the US threatened to 'bomb it to the stone age'. It is laughable that Iran, and not Pakistan, is facing more extensive sanctions . The US needs to wake up and realise that terrorism in that region is persisting partly due its flawed foreign policy.
The rift between the US and Iran is due to bilateral differences rather than the latter financing terrorism. When you back the Shah and his murderous secret police, Iranians won't throw flowers at you. Perhaps Iran isn't always the villain it's makes it to be eh?
If people were more intelligible, they would understand that Iran fought a proxy war against Taleban-era Afghanistan and gave covert intelligence to the US, which helped overthrow the Taleban. Labeling Iran as part of the 'Axis of Evil' was the single most uneducated mistake of the Bush Administration.
In contrast, Pakistan, a US ally, was the first and last country to establish diplomatic ties with the former Taleban government. Even after 9/11, Pakistan refused to renege political support for the Taleban (pls read up on this) until the US threatened to 'bomb it to the stone age'. It is laughable that Iran, and not Pakistan, is facing more extensive sanctions . The US needs to wake up and realise that terrorism in that region is persisting partly due its flawed foreign policy.
The rift between the US and Iran is due to bilateral differences rather than the latter financing terrorism. When you back the Shah and his murderous secret police, Iranians won't throw flowers at you. Perhaps Iran isn't always the villain it's makes it to be eh?
22
Consideration of the interests of others, respect for the sovereignty of other nations....what about Israel? No mention of the nation which feels most threatened by the prospect of an Iranian nuclear arsenal.
3
Talk about how your government is illegitimate and unelected and how soon you can relinquish the power which you violently seized and maintain solely by force of arms.
That the current rulers, religious fanatic Twelvers who are doing what they do so that some mythical 12rth imam named Al Mahdi will show up with Jesus, (sounds crazy but you can look it up, links below), threw out another bunch of illegitimate unelected despots, the shah and his crew, does not confer one iota of legitimacy upon you and your despotic illegitimate government.
I say ramp-up the sanctions until it gets so miserable in Iran that the Iranian People themselves rise up to throw out the despots.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_al-Mahdi
"Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Mahdī (Arabic:محمد بن الحسن المهدي) is believed by Twelver Shī‘a Muslims to be the Mahdī, an ultimate savior of humankind and the final Imām of the Twelve Imams who will emerge with Isa (Jesus Christ) in order to fulfill their mission of bringing peace and justice to the world."
And anyone is seriously considering allowing these fanatic people to possess nuclear capability of any kind? Are you kidding?
That the current rulers, religious fanatic Twelvers who are doing what they do so that some mythical 12rth imam named Al Mahdi will show up with Jesus, (sounds crazy but you can look it up, links below), threw out another bunch of illegitimate unelected despots, the shah and his crew, does not confer one iota of legitimacy upon you and your despotic illegitimate government.
I say ramp-up the sanctions until it gets so miserable in Iran that the Iranian People themselves rise up to throw out the despots.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_al-Mahdi
"Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Mahdī (Arabic:محمد بن الحسن المهدي) is believed by Twelver Shī‘a Muslims to be the Mahdī, an ultimate savior of humankind and the final Imām of the Twelve Imams who will emerge with Isa (Jesus Christ) in order to fulfill their mission of bringing peace and justice to the world."
And anyone is seriously considering allowing these fanatic people to possess nuclear capability of any kind? Are you kidding?
3
I am so much in favor of John Kerry and the administration's view regarding nuclear talks with Iran. President Obama has conceded some advise and consent roles for congress. Foreign policy is the executive's purview, but if an actual treaty is involved, congress has the responsibility. That said, writing a right wing policy statement to the Ayatollahs is really bad form. I must also agree with many commenters here: The "death to America, England and Israel" stuff should be addressed, too.
The right wing would do well to support our president, not the Ayatollahs, Netanyahu, or Putin. Fox news turns to jelly seeing a half-naked Putin on a horse or the King of Jordan dressed in fatigues. Their policy of "anyone but Obama" goes from disappointing to sad to downright embarrassing. If I have to choose between the credibility of Zarif or Obama, I'll choose the president. I think that means I'm an American, Fox would call me a traitor.
The right wing would do well to support our president, not the Ayatollahs, Netanyahu, or Putin. Fox news turns to jelly seeing a half-naked Putin on a horse or the King of Jordan dressed in fatigues. Their policy of "anyone but Obama" goes from disappointing to sad to downright embarrassing. If I have to choose between the credibility of Zarif or Obama, I'll choose the president. I think that means I'm an American, Fox would call me a traitor.
9
After the easy pickings in Lebanon, Iraq & Syria, a looming defeat in Yemen is causing Iran to indulge in "make nice" rhetoric. Mr. Zarif offers nothing new or encouraging. It is almost laughable that he now now calls for peaceful settlement of disputes and territorial integrity. This piece is merely part of a long, drawn out negotiation. Unfortunately, they know what we are willing to pay. Can we say the same about them?
3
Dear Mr.Zarif,
I would like to congratulate you on your masterful Propaganda article.You left out a few very important factors.
1-Iran is a Theocracy & not a Democracy.
2-Iran is responsible for most of the unrest in the Middle East as a purveyor of terrorism.
3-Iran is not a free Society, and will never be, until they shed their archaic treatment of it's women.
4-Iran with all it's so called culture & oil wealth from oil, is corrupt & a major threat to the region & the world & must not acquire Nuclear weapons.
All the words ever created by man cannot overcome fact & ones actions.
I would like to congratulate you on your masterful Propaganda article.You left out a few very important factors.
1-Iran is a Theocracy & not a Democracy.
2-Iran is responsible for most of the unrest in the Middle East as a purveyor of terrorism.
3-Iran is not a free Society, and will never be, until they shed their archaic treatment of it's women.
4-Iran with all it's so called culture & oil wealth from oil, is corrupt & a major threat to the region & the world & must not acquire Nuclear weapons.
All the words ever created by man cannot overcome fact & ones actions.
8
Did you not read the Times piece the other day about the magnificent bridge in Iran, designed by a woman? Iran educates its women and awards them important work.
Iran is way more democratic compared to the other countries in the Middle East and particularly its Arab neighbors. The reason that the democracy in Iran is still far from western standards is that the U.S. decided to overthrow a democratic Iranian government and replace it with a dictator in 1953.
May I remind you that Saudi arabia is the only country in the world that does not allow women to have a driving license ? Even in North Korea women are alowed to drive a car. Moreover there is no recognition of practicing other religions in Saudi Arabia. No churches or temples anywhere in the country . No elections at all while you can clearly see that in Iran elections matter and can make a difference. Iran has lots of universities and is a pioneer in developing science. What about Saudi Arabia ?
You should also do a little reaearch about the financial aid that Saudis have to al Qaeda. Iran has not attacked any country in 200 years. When was the last time US, Israel or Saudi Arabia attacked another country ? Unlike the U.S. , Iran has not overthrown any democratic government to replace it with a dictator.
With all that, you believe that when Saudis are leading a coalition to bomb Yemen it is going to lead to something constructive for the region ? Isn't it time for the U.S. to realize that it's support for a dictator government in Saudi Arabia has only lead to more chaos and instability in the region ?
May I remind you that Saudi arabia is the only country in the world that does not allow women to have a driving license ? Even in North Korea women are alowed to drive a car. Moreover there is no recognition of practicing other religions in Saudi Arabia. No churches or temples anywhere in the country . No elections at all while you can clearly see that in Iran elections matter and can make a difference. Iran has lots of universities and is a pioneer in developing science. What about Saudi Arabia ?
You should also do a little reaearch about the financial aid that Saudis have to al Qaeda. Iran has not attacked any country in 200 years. When was the last time US, Israel or Saudi Arabia attacked another country ? Unlike the U.S. , Iran has not overthrown any democratic government to replace it with a dictator.
With all that, you believe that when Saudis are leading a coalition to bomb Yemen it is going to lead to something constructive for the region ? Isn't it time for the U.S. to realize that it's support for a dictator government in Saudi Arabia has only lead to more chaos and instability in the region ?
A great opening that lays bare the animosities, fears, hates and jealousies that have lain in remission over the past 67 years. From North Africa to the Middle East both weak and strong governments have successfully kept a lid on tribal, religious and secular diversity by focusing on, what in the Minister's letter is the well known "Dog that didn't bark," from Sherlock Holmes.
No where in this letter is mentioned the one cohesive factor that kept this part of the world from erupting as it now has. Israel. Channeling hatred toward a perceived common enemy, Israel, has succeeded in keeping the focus away from historic differences and slights. Hopefully, the Minister is aware that by purposely avoiding the mention of Israel, Iran is also open to acknowledging the futility of maintaining their horrific characterizations of Israel and working toward a common goal of a lasting Mid East peace.
No where in this letter is mentioned the one cohesive factor that kept this part of the world from erupting as it now has. Israel. Channeling hatred toward a perceived common enemy, Israel, has succeeded in keeping the focus away from historic differences and slights. Hopefully, the Minister is aware that by purposely avoiding the mention of Israel, Iran is also open to acknowledging the futility of maintaining their horrific characterizations of Israel and working toward a common goal of a lasting Mid East peace.
2
I am encouraged by this article .
People and countries evolve ,China for example after the Nixon initiative, Vietnam etc.
As Senator Rubio so sagely said "the past is past" however he forgot to add except in Iran and Cuba.
I believe Iran could be a force for the good in its region and I for one would not put all my eggs in the Saudi Arabia basket.
So let's get this agreement done and then move onto other issues articulated in the article.
Of course we should not trust Iran implicitly and military options are always available.
Another point we should note is that the rest of the world is embracing Iran, China negotiating for oil, Russia supplying arms, even Australia is receiving info from Iran on ISIS within Australia.
For Congress to blow up these negotiations will be so stupid as Iran will emerge as a trading partner for the rest of the world, will still have the ability to build nuclear weapons if it so wishes and all our leverage will be gone .
So the only option left is to bomb Iran , this will of course please our collective masters Netanyahu and the Oil industry but leave us in chaos and at odds with the world
People and countries evolve ,China for example after the Nixon initiative, Vietnam etc.
As Senator Rubio so sagely said "the past is past" however he forgot to add except in Iran and Cuba.
I believe Iran could be a force for the good in its region and I for one would not put all my eggs in the Saudi Arabia basket.
So let's get this agreement done and then move onto other issues articulated in the article.
Of course we should not trust Iran implicitly and military options are always available.
Another point we should note is that the rest of the world is embracing Iran, China negotiating for oil, Russia supplying arms, even Australia is receiving info from Iran on ISIS within Australia.
For Congress to blow up these negotiations will be so stupid as Iran will emerge as a trading partner for the rest of the world, will still have the ability to build nuclear weapons if it so wishes and all our leverage will be gone .
So the only option left is to bomb Iran , this will of course please our collective masters Netanyahu and the Oil industry but leave us in chaos and at odds with the world
21
Game over. Zarif, obviously an excellent chess player, with this bold but hollow deception, will have the American Liberal class eating out of his hand. Wariness will be thrown to the wind -- as will Israel, clearly left out of Zarif's plans for a peaceful region. What perfidy will our government now foist upon us as it trips all over itself eager to accept this ruse of an offer and even go further just to demonstrate how open-minded and agreeable we can be.
8
If current Iran/Saudi actions about Yemen escalate to worse war, assuming that Iran has public/secret treaty with the Russians:
Is World War III more possible?
Because of weekend news report that Iran has placed war ships off the Yemen coast.
Is World War III more possible?
Because of weekend news report that Iran has placed war ships off the Yemen coast.
3
What a collection of lies.
An ultimatum should be delivered to Iran. No atomic bombs forever. Inspection of all its facilities. Otherwise several carries will show up and smash its nuclear infrastructure. But, Obama is to busy apologizing for America to act like Ronald Reagan.
Peace to the Ayatollahs means submission. "....exclusively peaceful nature..."
This problem was manufactured in Tehran. ".....manufactured crisis..."
Who is causing turmoil in Gaza, Yemen, Syria, etc? "... turmoil...."
Except Israel? "... other stakeholders...."
An ultimatum should be delivered to Iran. No atomic bombs forever. Inspection of all its facilities. Otherwise several carries will show up and smash its nuclear infrastructure. But, Obama is to busy apologizing for America to act like Ronald Reagan.
Peace to the Ayatollahs means submission. "....exclusively peaceful nature..."
This problem was manufactured in Tehran. ".....manufactured crisis..."
Who is causing turmoil in Gaza, Yemen, Syria, etc? "... turmoil...."
Except Israel? "... other stakeholders...."
1
Has this guy talked to the Supreme Leader about peaceful coexistence? There's an intentional disconnect between what one hears in the Iranian mosque and what's said to the non-Iranian audience. Basically, we're being told to trust Iran, that Iran has no ambitions to develop nuclear weapons. By now, we should have walked away from fruitless negotiations with Iran and ramped up sanctions.
Not much different from the conflicting messages we get from the US President and the AIPAC-controlled Congress. Let us hope the promoters of diplomacy and cooperation prevail.
Engaging Iran takes one log out of the fire.
However, one must not forget that Zarif's Shi'ite message bears an anti (radical) Sunni undertone. Of course he views ISIS as un-Islamic, and their advances are perhaps his main worry. For generations to come, the two sects will not be able to cooperate due to the mutual hatred that is induced into their children through their religions.
Perhaps ISIS constitutes one of the biggest opportunities in history to shape a lasting peace for the Middle East and for Barak Obama to finally earn his Nobel Prize. The turmoil creates a common cause for all stakeholders in the Middle East, including Israel and including majority Sunni territories.
Thus, engaging and strengthening Iran, the Kurds, Turkey, Israel (in a two-state 1967 solution with Palestine), Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and other states (even though they may be viewed as not holding up to the standards of the US) is not only defusing Iran but will help to contain ISIS. Yet, a Sunni state (ISIS) constitutes part of the natural order in the Middle East. It may be unwise to hold on to borders that had been imposed by Western forces since WWI.
Iran puts the bait on the table. The West needs to take it.
However, one must not forget that Zarif's Shi'ite message bears an anti (radical) Sunni undertone. Of course he views ISIS as un-Islamic, and their advances are perhaps his main worry. For generations to come, the two sects will not be able to cooperate due to the mutual hatred that is induced into their children through their religions.
Perhaps ISIS constitutes one of the biggest opportunities in history to shape a lasting peace for the Middle East and for Barak Obama to finally earn his Nobel Prize. The turmoil creates a common cause for all stakeholders in the Middle East, including Israel and including majority Sunni territories.
Thus, engaging and strengthening Iran, the Kurds, Turkey, Israel (in a two-state 1967 solution with Palestine), Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and other states (even though they may be viewed as not holding up to the standards of the US) is not only defusing Iran but will help to contain ISIS. Yet, a Sunni state (ISIS) constitutes part of the natural order in the Middle East. It may be unwise to hold on to borders that had been imposed by Western forces since WWI.
Iran puts the bait on the table. The West needs to take it.
3
Despite being the target of 60+ years of covert and overt regime change American war, Iran has no nuclear weapons and is a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Nor has Iran ever threatened to attack nor attacked the American homeland. Nor has Iran invaded and occupied nor blockaded nor besieged nor exiled any other nation or people based upon ethnic sectarian supremacist grounds. Iran is not the source of the Sunni Muslim Arab terrorist organizations like al Qaeda and ISIL and their affiliates.
America should make this nuclear deal with the P 5 +1 as a prelude to removing all nukes from the Middle East. Followed by demilitarization of the Middle East along with diplomatic, commercial, political peaceful civil secular plural egalitarian democratic solutions to regional ethnic sectarian problems. America should reestablish diplomatic relations with Iran and end the American war against Iran. Since 9/11 only .75 % of Americans have volunteered to serve in the military. While America's Arab, Israeli and Turkish allies have been pretty useless in the fight. But for the loyalty of the Kurds, America would be alone.
With the socioeconomic political educational lives of 315 million Arabs, 80 million Turks, 80 million Persian Iranians, 35 million Kurds, 6.1 million Israelis and 6 million Palestinians at stake this would be a very good thing.
America should make this nuclear deal with the P 5 +1 as a prelude to removing all nukes from the Middle East. Followed by demilitarization of the Middle East along with diplomatic, commercial, political peaceful civil secular plural egalitarian democratic solutions to regional ethnic sectarian problems. America should reestablish diplomatic relations with Iran and end the American war against Iran. Since 9/11 only .75 % of Americans have volunteered to serve in the military. While America's Arab, Israeli and Turkish allies have been pretty useless in the fight. But for the loyalty of the Kurds, America would be alone.
With the socioeconomic political educational lives of 315 million Arabs, 80 million Turks, 80 million Persian Iranians, 35 million Kurds, 6.1 million Israelis and 6 million Palestinians at stake this would be a very good thing.
16
"respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states" - an excellent principle. Can we assume Iran applies it to Israel as well?
1
This is a well written commentary by Mohammad Javad Zarif. This is not the first time Iran's leadership has responded with maturity and thought. When the 47 US Congressmen sent their infamous letter to Iran warning them that any nuclear agreement without the approval of the US Congress could be in jeopardy Iran responded like mature adults to their threats.
When the US Congress voted to have a say so in the negotiation Iran responded by saying they are negotiating with five other countries and not just the US. They again showed maturity and a grasp on reality.
The disconnect in the US toward Iran is that there are war hawks or war mongers in the US Congress such as Tom Cotton and John McCain who would rather bomb Iran into submission than negotiate. This thinking also coincide with Netanyahu of Israel. They want more sanctions to cripple Iran's economy while bombing their nuclear facilities. This will drag the US military into another conflict in the Middle East and cause instability.
Let us all hope that an agreement is reached with Iran and the United Nations six member security council nations. This will prevent these war mongers from instigating a no win situation for the United States. Netanyahu is a very dangerous and disruptive leader in the Middle East.
When the US Congress voted to have a say so in the negotiation Iran responded by saying they are negotiating with five other countries and not just the US. They again showed maturity and a grasp on reality.
The disconnect in the US toward Iran is that there are war hawks or war mongers in the US Congress such as Tom Cotton and John McCain who would rather bomb Iran into submission than negotiate. This thinking also coincide with Netanyahu of Israel. They want more sanctions to cripple Iran's economy while bombing their nuclear facilities. This will drag the US military into another conflict in the Middle East and cause instability.
Let us all hope that an agreement is reached with Iran and the United Nations six member security council nations. This will prevent these war mongers from instigating a no win situation for the United States. Netanyahu is a very dangerous and disruptive leader in the Middle East.
22
To quote Wikipedia, "Iran is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations,[17][18] beginning with the formation of the Proto-Elamite and Elamite kingdom in 3200–2800 BC." Iran has a stable, cohesive population, united by history, ethnicity and religion. Zarif indicates that Iran seeks to lead, both in resolving the turmoil in the Mideast that was initiated by the Iraq War and, in creating long-term stability throughout the region. In short, Zarif tells us that Iran wishes to become a regional leader and global player, and has the resources to do so.
Note that Mr. Zarif calls for a "regional process," with only stakeholders involved, mediated through existing institutional structures, primarily the UN. This suggests that, once the nuclear treaty is negotiated, he wishes the US and Russia to step out of the picture and let Iran lead the process. Nor does he expressly exclude Israel from such talks. This is important, and we should take heed.
Iran isn't going to recognize Israel - yet. Nor, however, will Iran attack Israel. If you want to be players, not corpses, you know that all-out war is not in your best interests.
Netanyahu thinks that Israel can remain safe only if its enemies remain in conflict and internal disarray. We should reject Netanyahu's strategy - endless war - and consider Zafif's position. Iran will profit from peace, lose from war - and the Persian/Iranians did not survive for 3 millennia by being impractical. Let's learn from their example.
Note that Mr. Zarif calls for a "regional process," with only stakeholders involved, mediated through existing institutional structures, primarily the UN. This suggests that, once the nuclear treaty is negotiated, he wishes the US and Russia to step out of the picture and let Iran lead the process. Nor does he expressly exclude Israel from such talks. This is important, and we should take heed.
Iran isn't going to recognize Israel - yet. Nor, however, will Iran attack Israel. If you want to be players, not corpses, you know that all-out war is not in your best interests.
Netanyahu thinks that Israel can remain safe only if its enemies remain in conflict and internal disarray. We should reject Netanyahu's strategy - endless war - and consider Zafif's position. Iran will profit from peace, lose from war - and the Persian/Iranians did not survive for 3 millennia by being impractical. Let's learn from their example.
25
Dear Mr. Zarif,
Thank you for taking the time to address the readers of America's paper of record. Perhaps you should also lobby the majority leader of this nation's House of Representatives in order to directly address the concerns of our Congress. I'm certain you'd receive a rousing welcome there. Many (many!) of us continue to support the negotiations and provisional conclusions that you've reached with the U.S. and its allies. On the other hand, please understand that most of our citizens continue to resent the absence of free speech and of a truly free press in your country. When we see unarmed demonstrators beaten in the streets and incarcerated for extended periods of time simply for protesting the results of an election that had clearly been stolen from them (i.e., the dubious "reelection" of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad) we cannot help but feel outrage and compassion on their behalf. We have also been greatly vexed by the manner in which Iran's leaders have previously dissembled about the extent of its nuclear program. Furthermore, your comments in support of nonintervention in the affairs of your neighbors fly in the face of reality in consideration of your financial and/or military support of the rebels in Yemen, the militants in Lebanon and in Gaza and, most ignominiously, the unelected despot in Damascus whose grievous misrule has enabled the creation and empowerment of ISIS. It would be helpful if you would address THOSE concerns.
Thank you for taking the time to address the readers of America's paper of record. Perhaps you should also lobby the majority leader of this nation's House of Representatives in order to directly address the concerns of our Congress. I'm certain you'd receive a rousing welcome there. Many (many!) of us continue to support the negotiations and provisional conclusions that you've reached with the U.S. and its allies. On the other hand, please understand that most of our citizens continue to resent the absence of free speech and of a truly free press in your country. When we see unarmed demonstrators beaten in the streets and incarcerated for extended periods of time simply for protesting the results of an election that had clearly been stolen from them (i.e., the dubious "reelection" of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad) we cannot help but feel outrage and compassion on their behalf. We have also been greatly vexed by the manner in which Iran's leaders have previously dissembled about the extent of its nuclear program. Furthermore, your comments in support of nonintervention in the affairs of your neighbors fly in the face of reality in consideration of your financial and/or military support of the rebels in Yemen, the militants in Lebanon and in Gaza and, most ignominiously, the unelected despot in Damascus whose grievous misrule has enabled the creation and empowerment of ISIS. It would be helpful if you would address THOSE concerns.
2
It would be a more convincing column if it had been co-signed by the Ayatollah.
But it is a good first step, even if it doesn't include the hottest issues.
But it is a good first step, even if it doesn't include the hottest issues.
6
it is literally called "A Message From Iran." Do you really think he would have written this without that approval?
These are the new breads in the Iranian political future arena, people like Zarif and Rohani. The Iranian Mullahs saw their end of ruling back in 2009. They know there's no future for them in Iran. So, they came up with this plan to slowly but surely change the face of Iran's ruling future.
So, no mention of Hezbollah? Iran's terrorist proxy, which it supplies with weapons? If Iran wants to demonstrate a desire for peace, cutting ties with Hezbollah would be an excellent start.
8
The US has supported (covertly) terrorists proxies as well. I know its hard to believe (I mean accept) this while still loving your country, as I do (US). But it can be done; here's an idea: why don't we start a dialogue about it with the goal of resolving the tensions and cruelties that abound around the world's conduct. Who said this? ---> Oh, the writer of this Op-Ed. How's that for an excellent start.
And the US cutting ties with the terrorist Israeli and Saudi governments would be an appropriate response.
"Audacity" is definitely the right word. Zarif's audacity in playing innocent victim and voice of reason is monumental. He says everyone should play nice - while Iran sponsors vicious terrorism throughout the region. He says that Iran's nuclear program is 100% peaceful - while blocking nuclear inspections. He says everyone should work things out in peaceful talks - while Iran's religious dictator says the USA is deceitful and its promises are worthless. The sophistry is staggering.
3
Please tell us about Israel's arsenal of 200+ nukes. Please tell us about Israel terrorizing Gaza with white phosphorous bombs. Please tell us about Deir Yassin.
So, when, exactly, does John Kerry get to publish an op-ed in Tehran's newspaper of record? Let me know; I expect to see pigs aviating overhead first.
4
Obama's speech was played live across Iran. Did you not hear of that? Did you see any Iranian leader message on TV here? Does this raise any question in your mind as to your post? Or, will you simply defer to the lowest common denominator of instantly gripping at hate, stereotypes, and demonizing of the "other."
Digging deep into the dross, one reading of this article goes:
Give us Syria and Iraq, stay away from Lebanon and lets call Yemen a tie.
Give us Syria and Iraq, stay away from Lebanon and lets call Yemen a tie.
4
Just a couple of years ago we had another "give peace a chance" op-ed article -- by Vladimir Putin. Putin got what he wanted. Obama, who walks loudly and carries a small stick, failed to act in Syria and today we have ISIS, the Ukraine, and Russian nuclear weapons flying within 50 miles of California. Putin took our measure and was right.
Now we get to hear, on the pages of the Times, another adversary tell us how peaceful their intentions are as they chant "Death to America" at home and work to build a weapons capable of destroying us.
If one had to select a page of the newspaper with which to wrap fish, this would be the one.
Now we get to hear, on the pages of the Times, another adversary tell us how peaceful their intentions are as they chant "Death to America" at home and work to build a weapons capable of destroying us.
If one had to select a page of the newspaper with which to wrap fish, this would be the one.
6
ISIS is created, funded and supported by the so-called friend, Saudi Arabia. How many wars do we have to fight? How many more dead for a lost cause.
Any issue with an op-ed by Natanzyahu would be the rag of choice.
Iran is now ready to discuss how the West can help them put down a Sunni existential threat to their existence, on the WEST'S dime; now that they've gotten the West to accept that their possession of nuclear weapons is inevitable and that sanctions will be lifted, facilitating that nuclear program and their general efforts at regional terrorism.
This is really big of them.
This is really big of them.
5
I believe they have no intention of living up to any final agreements on the nuclear front. The Iranian leaders knowing that sanctions would be reimposed and/or military action taken against them. Hence the acceptance of the delivery of advanced surface to air missiles from Russia.
1
I guess one can always think of ways to classify the "others" willful response to engage in a way that benefits both countries interests, as one sided. How big of you, Mr. America.
Uh, huh. Are you you also ready to stop the daily government-sponsored hate rallies chanting "Death to America", "Death to Israel"? Are you, your "Supreme Leader", and the generals heading your Revolutionary Guard ready to stop calling for Israel's annihilation - which would mean the genocide of another six million Jews by destroying a fully-credentialed UN member? Are you ready to stop those obscene yearly government-sponsored public art exhibitions either ridiculing or denying the Holocaust?
5
Does "The world cannot afford to continue to avoid addressing the roots of the turmoil in the wider Persian Gulf region" imply that he thinks Bernard Lewis' "rage" is right?
3
Here, Zarif says a bunch of nice sounding platitudes. There, Khamenei says all sanctions must be lifted the moment a deal is struck. Which means the deal cannot be struck.
Classic negotiating tactic. Say you really, really want a deal and are reasonable, and then demand terms the other party cannot give. Thus the deal is scuttled, but it looks like its not your fault
Classic negotiating tactic. Say you really, really want a deal and are reasonable, and then demand terms the other party cannot give. Thus the deal is scuttled, but it looks like its not your fault
10
I think that Mr Zarif's vision for the wider Persian Gulf region should resonate with those of you who live in Greater Canada.
4
This is a well conceived, thoughtful piece which contrasts greatly with our bloviating, militaristic Republican would be Presidents not to mention the meddling Netanyahu. Of course what people say is not always what they do, but we would be foolish not to take this Iranian opening seriously.
Mr. Zarit uses the word cooperation, a concept our right wing Republicans do not know. Witness their almost pathological rejection of our President. Is it any wonder that Republicans intent on the use of force reject cooperation or showing any flexibility towards iran or any other person they disagree with for that matter.
Mr. Zarit uses the word cooperation, a concept our right wing Republicans do not know. Witness their almost pathological rejection of our President. Is it any wonder that Republicans intent on the use of force reject cooperation or showing any flexibility towards iran or any other person they disagree with for that matter.
12
Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif,
a far better actor than Omar Sharif,
has taken to Twitter to voice his belief,
there isn’t a phased plan for sanctions relief.
He tweeted that none of the plants will shut down,
Fordow will stay open and remain underground,
enrichment proceeds unrestrained and unbound,
and whatever's enriched can be sold out of town.
This fact-sheet the P5 + 1 has presented,
is nothing but spin, Zarif then lamented.
None of the bargains, it seems are cemented,
yet all those involved are being commended.
But Iran has made only one promise to date,
that their hatred toward Israel will never abate,
and given the chance, they will seek to create,
a weapon to wipe out the Jews and their state.
Once sanctions are lifted Iran will make millions,
then funnel those funds to their war-making minions,
and despite all the back pats and rosy opinions,
the cost of this deal will be paid by civilians.
And when there’s an arms race, what happens then?
The Saudis will nuke up, so let’s not pretend.
The Jews under threat and forsaken by friends,
from "never forget" to, "oh no, not again."
When Iran breaks their word and the truth is revealed,
when it turns out that all that we’ve read wasn’t real,
all the words written in defense of this deal,
should be chewed up and eaten with crow as a meal.
a far better actor than Omar Sharif,
has taken to Twitter to voice his belief,
there isn’t a phased plan for sanctions relief.
He tweeted that none of the plants will shut down,
Fordow will stay open and remain underground,
enrichment proceeds unrestrained and unbound,
and whatever's enriched can be sold out of town.
This fact-sheet the P5 + 1 has presented,
is nothing but spin, Zarif then lamented.
None of the bargains, it seems are cemented,
yet all those involved are being commended.
But Iran has made only one promise to date,
that their hatred toward Israel will never abate,
and given the chance, they will seek to create,
a weapon to wipe out the Jews and their state.
Once sanctions are lifted Iran will make millions,
then funnel those funds to their war-making minions,
and despite all the back pats and rosy opinions,
the cost of this deal will be paid by civilians.
And when there’s an arms race, what happens then?
The Saudis will nuke up, so let’s not pretend.
The Jews under threat and forsaken by friends,
from "never forget" to, "oh no, not again."
When Iran breaks their word and the truth is revealed,
when it turns out that all that we’ve read wasn’t real,
all the words written in defense of this deal,
should be chewed up and eaten with crow as a meal.
18
Your pace is clever and your cadence is cool.
Yet the future is unknowable is our one sure rule
And tea leaves and tarot cards are meant for the fool.
Yet the future is unknowable is our one sure rule
And tea leaves and tarot cards are meant for the fool.
Beautifully written and so hopeful. What piece of history or action can we point to since the revolution in 1979 should we have any hope of trust and compliance by the rules in Iran. Give me one thing to point to. However, I can suggest several things to ferment doubt: Lebanon/Marines 1982, Argentine synagogue 1994, Hezbollah/Hamas ongoing, complete backing of Assad in Syria (did anyone catch 60 Minutes last night re the Sarin gas incident?), infiltration of Iraq and Yemen.
And now, our Commander in Chief who resolutely insisted in his communication of the agreement that sanctions would be lifted in phases, has now backpedaled on that!! Suddenly, it's not the sanctions that are important, but our ability "snap them back" because that will be soooo damn easy! Sorry, but hope is just not a plan.
And now, our Commander in Chief who resolutely insisted in his communication of the agreement that sanctions would be lifted in phases, has now backpedaled on that!! Suddenly, it's not the sanctions that are important, but our ability "snap them back" because that will be soooo damn easy! Sorry, but hope is just not a plan.
10
Mohammad Javad Zarif is correct. This could be the start of a very constructive process. He just needs to courage to say Israel has a right to exist within the pre-1967 borders.
20
We live in a country with a history of slavery. We are the oly cutry to ever use nuclear weapons. We have made deals with devil for corporate profits. We have sent our young men and women into needless wars. And we also have liberated many over the years. We have been stunning in helping people around the world through earthquakes (including Iran), hurricanes, tsunamis and given billions in financial aid.
Why is it so hard to believe that Iran cannot be shifting with their demographics to a bit more modernity? And it is pretty clear that the Supreme Leader is losing a lot of sway with its younger population. He should not be saying "death to America, Israel" but it shouldn't deter us from opening up dialogue. China, Russia and Europe are going ahead with us or without us. We should be heavily involved to the benefit of our national interests and I stress OUR. Israel will benefit from this as well.
The Saudis have done more damage to us than Iran. The only difference is they export their extremists. The House of Saudi doesn't want it in their backyard but have zero problem unleashing their viscous wacky pit bulls on the rest of the world. They may chant "death to America" but the Saudis actually pulled it off with 9/11 and then got their greedy oil buddies to deflect any blame by talking a bunch of chicken hawks into a war with Iraq. Now that it's coming back to bite them, they want us bombing Iran?
Why is it so hard to believe that Iran cannot be shifting with their demographics to a bit more modernity? And it is pretty clear that the Supreme Leader is losing a lot of sway with its younger population. He should not be saying "death to America, Israel" but it shouldn't deter us from opening up dialogue. China, Russia and Europe are going ahead with us or without us. We should be heavily involved to the benefit of our national interests and I stress OUR. Israel will benefit from this as well.
The Saudis have done more damage to us than Iran. The only difference is they export their extremists. The House of Saudi doesn't want it in their backyard but have zero problem unleashing their viscous wacky pit bulls on the rest of the world. They may chant "death to America" but the Saudis actually pulled it off with 9/11 and then got their greedy oil buddies to deflect any blame by talking a bunch of chicken hawks into a war with Iraq. Now that it's coming back to bite them, they want us bombing Iran?
13
The Saudi's are simply buying off the terrorists to go kill somewhere else with the request..."and as long as you are at it, please take some of our more troublesome with you?"
All the people that have kept repeating the same things over and over for the past decades "they burned the American flag!", "they want Israel off the map", etc. need to shut up. There is a minority of extremists in Iran no doubt. Iran uses Hezbollah as a political and military tool to maintain its influence in the region, but didn't the United States do the same with Hussein in Iraq? Get over yourself and get over the past, the only people still doubting Iran are either uneducated or just born to hate.
"Iran has been a regional power for millennia. It has a deeper sense of long-term planning than most other younger nations, including the US. Iran would never risk nuclear war as it truly understands the stakes... it has far more to lose that many of the other nations in the Middle East."
"Iran has been a regional power for millennia. It has a deeper sense of long-term planning than most other younger nations, including the US. Iran would never risk nuclear war as it truly understands the stakes... it has far more to lose that many of the other nations in the Middle East."
13
The "minority" you refer to are the ones running the country.
1
Remember Putin's Op-Ed in the NY Times not so long ago? World leaders defending corrupt governments. NY Times, you are being played.
9
Indeed, both op-ed's were written for these dictators by American PR professionals.
Excellent rhetoric by Mr. Zarif. Unfortunately, it has zero correlation with excellent actions by Iran.
9
As a non commissioned officer in the Army, one of my First Sergeants always told us "trust but check." Your subordinates are probably doing the right thing, have all the right equipment, etc, but you always check because it's your job. Anyone who thinks the Iranian nuclear program should not be subject to regular thorough inspections, as well as unannounced inspections, is too trusting.
8
Very well addressed and rightfully stated Mr. Zarif, the age of bullying and do it MY way or get off the highway are over. Everybody recognizes a bully and it's these same (P5) bullies that couldn't rein in the ones like North Korea, India, Pakistan, and Israel that have the potential to wreck global devastation (which incidentally includes the P5 themselves). It's time to get rid of the vast arsenal from the supposed superpower standpoint and then set an example for the smaller countries to follow.
6
Oh, and I forgot, Death to Israel.
10
A simple observation....Zariff has not used that language to the best of my knowledge...perhaps he represents a faction that the West can do business with...I guess we will see if/when the Western powers give him some elbow room to work with
Mr. Zarif,
You speak of chaos in the Middle East intelligently and only allude to the political chaos in the US. Our partisan political actors desire each others’ failures more than they desire any possible collective success; this country does not have the political will & sanity needed to make this deal. Iran may have succeeded in pushing back its extremists to make a deal; but we have not.
I know your own political survival depends to improving relations with West, but too many forces are arrayed against you: partisan contempt, the Israeli lobby, Saudi & other scared, corrupt GCC monarchy money, the good old US military industrial complex, and a compliant US media that craves a manufactured prolonged crisis more than a passing accord. Iran’s best chances are to let the GOP, Saudi and Israeli pundits to torpedo this deal. Once that happens, you can point the finger at the US and then proceed to work directly with Europeans to have their sanctions removed. You will have it both ways then
As a US educated politician, you find many things you respect and like about this country and you crave improved relations with us above & beyond a nuclear accord; but we have invested 30 plus years in demonizing Iran and too many powerful elements are arrayed against your wishes. Improved relations are going to take a lot more time than you have and they are not going to happen between you and a the most disrespected US President, no matter how unjustified that disrespect may be.
You speak of chaos in the Middle East intelligently and only allude to the political chaos in the US. Our partisan political actors desire each others’ failures more than they desire any possible collective success; this country does not have the political will & sanity needed to make this deal. Iran may have succeeded in pushing back its extremists to make a deal; but we have not.
I know your own political survival depends to improving relations with West, but too many forces are arrayed against you: partisan contempt, the Israeli lobby, Saudi & other scared, corrupt GCC monarchy money, the good old US military industrial complex, and a compliant US media that craves a manufactured prolonged crisis more than a passing accord. Iran’s best chances are to let the GOP, Saudi and Israeli pundits to torpedo this deal. Once that happens, you can point the finger at the US and then proceed to work directly with Europeans to have their sanctions removed. You will have it both ways then
As a US educated politician, you find many things you respect and like about this country and you crave improved relations with us above & beyond a nuclear accord; but we have invested 30 plus years in demonizing Iran and too many powerful elements are arrayed against your wishes. Improved relations are going to take a lot more time than you have and they are not going to happen between you and a the most disrespected US President, no matter how unjustified that disrespect may be.
11
Alfie--Don't you mean the most hated, AFRICAN-American President? You didn't say it, but that's what you meant. Those in the know are not fooled, by the distraction of a "political philosophy."
I thought i heard something about Iran being the leading exporter and supporter of terrorism in the world. I guess that's not really important here.
Lovely sentiments. Would have been nice had he even once mentioned Saudi Arabia or Israel. You could read his soothing words and not have a clue if Iran's leadership is in the midst of changing its view towards the rest of the not Shia world. I guess time will tell. Problem is, this part of the world is lit fuse, and there's not a whole lot of time left to get it right.
4
For those unfamiliar with Zarif he is Minister of Foreign Affairs, responsible for Iranian negotiating the current nuclear deal talks.
10
Give negotiations a chance. The sanctions will not be removed until the inspectors are in and actions that were agreed upon are done. The only other alternative offered is bombing. Please no bombing before negotiations. Until it happened, no one thought Egypt or Jordan would have an enduring peace deal with Israel.
9
The "only alternative" is bombing? What about other alternative that calls for rational, civilized behavior by Iran?
In any case, Obama has already caved in to allow Iran nuclear weapons (within time). He, like every politician is doing what they do best: kicking the problem down the road, losing the battle and declaring victory.
That, my little friend, is what is called "creative".
In any case, Obama has already caved in to allow Iran nuclear weapons (within time). He, like every politician is doing what they do best: kicking the problem down the road, losing the battle and declaring victory.
That, my little friend, is what is called "creative".
1
I'm not surprised that the Iranian foreign minister does not mention cooperation in peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, therefore I remain skeptical about Iranian strategy.
4
I would guess that Israel and Palestine are sort of a side show right now. There is a fairly stable balance of terror there that is local in scope, as opposed to the Sunni-Shi'a struggle that reaches all across the Arab world and is of incredible complexity in all its local ramifications.
What peace talks?
Because that would be too highly charged and inflame backlash almost immediately no matter his stated position on the subject. Remember also, an olive branch does not contain the whole tree...
Have anybody ever read a bigger heap of baloney? The whole essay is dripping with irony. Zarif bemoans the so-called instability and problems which Iran itself is responsible for! I call this incredible chutzpah!
Iran blatantly promotes instability throughout the region by its involvement (via proxies such as Hizbullah) in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, Iraq and now Yemen.
Now Iran is offering to help! Is anybody here stupid enough to be taken in by Zarif's lies?
It would be like Hitler calling on the Allies to "cooperate" with him to help "solve" the Jewish refugee problem in 1944.
Iran blatantly promotes instability throughout the region by its involvement (via proxies such as Hizbullah) in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, Iraq and now Yemen.
Now Iran is offering to help! Is anybody here stupid enough to be taken in by Zarif's lies?
It would be like Hitler calling on the Allies to "cooperate" with him to help "solve" the Jewish refugee problem in 1944.
6
Yeah , right ! " Death to America " ! Hmm , where have I heard that ?
4
OK. I get it.
The Iranian people will follow their leaders.
Some sunni muslims are the problem.
The Persian Gulf is Persian.
The Greater Persian Gulf region should be at least be under Persian influence, if not control.
Iran's nuclear weapons program is peaceful.
Israel is a non-entity not to be mentioned by name except with the phrase, "death to" preceding it.
Hezzbollah is not a problem.
Hamas is not a problem.
Assad is not a problem.
The Saudis should get used to their next door neighbor, Yemen, being occupied by Iranian clients.
And the sanctions should be lifted,
Thank you very much, Foreign Minister Zarif.
The Iranian people will follow their leaders.
Some sunni muslims are the problem.
The Persian Gulf is Persian.
The Greater Persian Gulf region should be at least be under Persian influence, if not control.
Iran's nuclear weapons program is peaceful.
Israel is a non-entity not to be mentioned by name except with the phrase, "death to" preceding it.
Hezzbollah is not a problem.
Hamas is not a problem.
Assad is not a problem.
The Saudis should get used to their next door neighbor, Yemen, being occupied by Iranian clients.
And the sanctions should be lifted,
Thank you very much, Foreign Minister Zarif.
9
He is a Politician, the task at hand is Peaceful neighbors. You don't start by saying the neighborhood is the Persian Gulf, meaning it is my neighborhood. Action speaks more than words, ask the Houthis to pull out of the south and move to their neighborhood. Stop supporting Assad and Hezbollah. I hope you will be able to coordinate to get rid of the cancer called Isis and Al-Qaida. Stop chanting death to America.
4
"... regional dialogue should be based on ... respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states; ... impermissibility of threat or use of force ...."
Mr. Zarif, do you mean to imply that your country hereby relinquishes it's ideology about Israel, and takes back the declaration of a high IRG officer just a couple of weeks ago, that "Eradicating Israel off the map is un-negotiable?"
Of course not! And just as we can believe this foxy honey-dripping talk should we believe the sincerity of your vows about the peaceful nature of your nuclear program or your intention to abide by the to-be agreement without all-encompassing, strict, stringent, on-location, and effective controls.
Mr. Zarif, do you mean to imply that your country hereby relinquishes it's ideology about Israel, and takes back the declaration of a high IRG officer just a couple of weeks ago, that "Eradicating Israel off the map is un-negotiable?"
Of course not! And just as we can believe this foxy honey-dripping talk should we believe the sincerity of your vows about the peaceful nature of your nuclear program or your intention to abide by the to-be agreement without all-encompassing, strict, stringent, on-location, and effective controls.
6
Or perhaps there are actually different factions in this complex political organism called Iran? Perhaps Zarif has limited elbow room to work with. Perhaps he will have more influence to moderate Iranian policy if we engage with eyes wide open?
@Del
Thank you for your clearheadedness.
And, as a bonus, do you think you could reply here with your similar demand that the Obama Administration get John Bolton back on his meds?
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/opinion/to-stop-irans-bomb-bomb-iran.html
Thank you for your clearheadedness.
And, as a bonus, do you think you could reply here with your similar demand that the Obama Administration get John Bolton back on his meds?
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/26/opinion/to-stop-irans-bomb-bomb-iran.html
It's simply incredible that the NYT and its readers take this man and what he writes at face value. 220k people - the vast majority civilians - have been massacred in Syria, under Assad, with barrel bombs, sarin gas and whatnot. Beheaded children. Iran supported it all. Hizballah and Hamas have received thousands of missiles from Iran. Terror attacks across the world - from Argentina to Bulgaria - have been traced to Iran and its many proxies. Their leaders speak of "death to the US and Israel" and of "annihilating the Jews" again and gain. Rouhani himself was boasting of how he cheated and lied and managed to develop their nuclear program (which is anything but peaceful - underground facilities like Fordo are not needed for a peaceful program). Iran is destabilising the entire region (wider "Persian gulf" - haha, that's what they want it to become) and even the Arabs say so. But no, the "paper of record" has to publish a completely propagandistic piece with outright lies and deception without any criticism at all.
8
The NY Times opened this opinion piece up for comments, many of which are critical.
If you will stop for a moment and read the other comments in this thread you will see that it is not anything like the case that all "readers take this man and what he writes at face value." Spare yourself the upset on that concern.
The largest destabilizing force in the region was the illegal US invasion and occupation of Iraq....surely you must see that? In what version of reality does the only nation to incinerate civilians with nuclear weapons get to unilaterally dictate the terms under which other nations develop nuclear weapons?
I'm not sure I buy this perspective prima facie, but I'll take dialogue over no dialogue. Cooperation has to begin somewhere.
45
Insanity, like cooperation, has to being somewhere.
Foreign Minister Zarif: All that you and your political and religious masters have to say is that "all states" from the following paragraph from your Op-Ed includes Israel. If you do that, you've got me; if not, not. Time to put away the threats (hollow, because you're too weak to pull them off; but politically and morally a liability) to Israel's existence. If you want peace, make peace: recognize Israel.
"On a broader level, regional dialogue should be based on generally recognized principles and shared objectives, notably respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states; inviolability of international boundaries; noninterference in internal affairs; peaceful settlement of disputes; impermissibility of threat or use of force; and promotion of peace, stability, progress and prosperity in the region."
"On a broader level, regional dialogue should be based on generally recognized principles and shared objectives, notably respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states; inviolability of international boundaries; noninterference in internal affairs; peaceful settlement of disputes; impermissibility of threat or use of force; and promotion of peace, stability, progress and prosperity in the region."
4
Iranian regime is fraud.
It can not be trusted.
What is needed for not just Middle East but Worldwide peace is Regime Change in Iran.
This Corrupt regime must go by whatever means including military action, something more than 90% of all Iranians want.
It can not be trusted.
What is needed for not just Middle East but Worldwide peace is Regime Change in Iran.
This Corrupt regime must go by whatever means including military action, something more than 90% of all Iranians want.
6
Mansoor you are so right. Iran was taken over by religious fanatics with no accountability to the people. Beware tea party lovers .
We did that in 1952 when the CIA engineered the ouster of a democratically elected, secular president of Iran and returned the Shah to the "throne". This set the stage for the 1979 Iranian revolution and the establishment of an Islamic state. Who knows what the Middle East would be like today had we just left Iran alone, even if it meant the nationalization of its oil and the displeasure of BP. I suggest you read Dabashi's scholarly, and enlightening book, Iran: A People Interrupted before advocating more meddling. The big problem is Americans ignore history and thus are doomed to repeat diastrous mistakes of the past.
1
Yes, the regime has to go but that is not your choice or mine; it is the choice of the Iranian people who live INSIDE Iran everyday.
For terrorist organizations such as PMOI or National Council of Resistance to want to overthrow the regime in Iran using foreign forces and external elements is just not right.
As despicable as the Mullahs in Iran are, not negotiating with them translates to war and bloodshed in Iran just like the rest of the middle east. But unfortunately there are people who'd rather a total destruction of a 70-million population country just to see the Mullahs are gone.
Israel and Mr. Mansoor would love to see the American dollars and the American blood finance a war with Iran no matter how many innocent people may die.
For terrorist organizations such as PMOI or National Council of Resistance to want to overthrow the regime in Iran using foreign forces and external elements is just not right.
As despicable as the Mullahs in Iran are, not negotiating with them translates to war and bloodshed in Iran just like the rest of the middle east. But unfortunately there are people who'd rather a total destruction of a 70-million population country just to see the Mullahs are gone.
Israel and Mr. Mansoor would love to see the American dollars and the American blood finance a war with Iran no matter how many innocent people may die.
1
This all sounds sensible and even close to empathetic, but Mr. Zarif dodges a few issues that need to be addressed by the Iranian government if peace is to be restored. They must a) stop sponsoring terror groups and, b) recognize Israel's right to exist. They don't have to like Israel, but calling it an illegitimate state is not an option. It's important to remember that many of the top leaders of Iran either deny or celebrate the holocaust, and that is not a position likely to promote peace in the region.
Of course, we in the U.S. have our own whack jobs and crackpots to deal with. But that doesn't mean we are or have been the sole destabilizing force in the Middle East. I read some comments that are practically misty-eyed encomiums to the brilliance and compassion of the Iranian leaders, boasting through tightened throats that they never really wanted nukes in the first place and that the U.S. has always been so cruel and mean to them. That is pure folly. The U.S. can be, often is, a blundering, clumsy and murderous giant. But so can, is, Iran.
Of course, we in the U.S. have our own whack jobs and crackpots to deal with. But that doesn't mean we are or have been the sole destabilizing force in the Middle East. I read some comments that are practically misty-eyed encomiums to the brilliance and compassion of the Iranian leaders, boasting through tightened throats that they never really wanted nukes in the first place and that the U.S. has always been so cruel and mean to them. That is pure folly. The U.S. can be, often is, a blundering, clumsy and murderous giant. But so can, is, Iran.
50
The "whack jobs" in Iran control Iran.
President Obama is doing exactly what should be done in pursuing a deal, and Congress' grandstanding is embarrassing and amateurish, and Netanyahu's behavior is inexcusable. A deal would begin to move Iran in the right direction and is preferable to war. Yet should Iran breach the deal and pursue a nuclear weapon, then war is the only option and quite frankly is likely if Iran's "supreme leader" is to be taken at his word. HIs words are printed below:
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: “It is the mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to erase Israel from the map of the region.” “The Zionist regime is a cancerous tumor and it will be removed.” (2012) "This barbaric, wolflike & infanticidal regime of Israel which spares no crime has no cure but to be annihilated.” (2014)
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: “It is the mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to erase Israel from the map of the region.” “The Zionist regime is a cancerous tumor and it will be removed.” (2012) "This barbaric, wolflike & infanticidal regime of Israel which spares no crime has no cure but to be annihilated.” (2014)
8
Professors such as Noam Chomsky and Norman Finkelstein argue that supporters of Israel often try to equate anti-Zionism with antisemitism, to silence opposition to Israel's policies.
Mr. Zarif may sound articulate and rational, but until his country is willing to renounce its determination to wipe Israel off the map and end support for Hezbollah, he is not to be believed.
15
Quite a statesman - very articulate.... I love "magnanimity to open new horizons of constructive engagement based on mutual respect".
I don't believe a word of it. Iran continues to advocate publicly for the complete destruction of an entire country (Israel). Its Supreme Leader has literally chanted "Death to America" in front of cameras within the last few weeks - how is that for mutual respect or even language which anyone should accept from a head of state or major "religious" figure.
This despot along with its ally Russia have propped up the butcher Assad in Syria while he literally drops barrel bombs and gas on his own civilian populations.
This is the same regime that regularly jails journalists and tourists so as to be able to ransom them back to the West. Same regime that claims there are no homosexuals in their entire country but which proceeds to terrorize this population at home.
Words are great, but this regime has not earned "mutual respect" from anyone.
Call a despot a despot and keep the bomb out of their hands for the sake of humanity.
I don't believe a word of it. Iran continues to advocate publicly for the complete destruction of an entire country (Israel). Its Supreme Leader has literally chanted "Death to America" in front of cameras within the last few weeks - how is that for mutual respect or even language which anyone should accept from a head of state or major "religious" figure.
This despot along with its ally Russia have propped up the butcher Assad in Syria while he literally drops barrel bombs and gas on his own civilian populations.
This is the same regime that regularly jails journalists and tourists so as to be able to ransom them back to the West. Same regime that claims there are no homosexuals in their entire country but which proceeds to terrorize this population at home.
Words are great, but this regime has not earned "mutual respect" from anyone.
Call a despot a despot and keep the bomb out of their hands for the sake of humanity.
18
HBTO, don't buy Netanyahu arguments, is what I say to you or to anyone else who presents your kind of argument. Give peace a chance - buy the sensible proposal whether be from Iran or anyone who promises stability in the Middle East
Unfortunately some people choose to believe and to stick with a nonsensical statement made years ago by someone else. New day, new attitude and new gestures by the adversaries require open mind and the willingness to talk.
Don't forget your country's role in destroying the stability and balance of power in the middle-east by turning Iraq into a quagmire....
So many comments mention Iranian chants of "death to the USA". Not too many comments about Republicans singing "bomb, bomb, bomb; bomb bomb Iran". Hypocrisy, hubris and incompetence are a delay mixture, and are the coin of the Republican Party realm.
44
Ann, I agree. Hasbara commenting is worse than usual today. Sadly it gets in the way of good diplomacy.
3
Well, just as the Beach Boys rhythm backs McCain's ditty, it might be different if the Iranians were to chant "death to the USA" to the same rhythm as Springsteen's "born in the USA." At least then both sides could share the joke.
1
Not a fan of the Republicans, but it is not, and never has been, an act of national policy to bomb Iran. The members House or the Senate have never stood up and shouted in unison "Death to Iran". That the Iranians are shocked that there is hostility towards them is what I find so amusing.
23
United States seeks hegemony in the Middle East. Iran has resisted that. Most Arab (rulers) have willingly prostrated in front of this hegemony. Normalization of US-Iran relations will happen when either the US no longer wants to 'control' the Middle East or Iran grudgingly accepts America's hegemony. Interesting times ahead.
1
Iran is not an Arab country. It only wants to control them.
1
Dear Mr. Zarif,
"Good relations with our neighbors is our top priority".
Except Israel, apparently. I guess your government won't allow you to even mention this country "officially' as I see no mention of the Jewish state in your column.
How can you possibly claim to seek "stability" while tacitly supporting the very violence you de-cry? Then there's the "Death to America" thing and the denial of the "Holocaust"; just "ignoring" Israel and insulting America and Americans won't make both of these countries "go away".
When you can write a column suggesting "normalizing" relations with Israel, then, perhaps, I might start believing some of what you say.
"Good relations with our neighbors is our top priority".
Except Israel, apparently. I guess your government won't allow you to even mention this country "officially' as I see no mention of the Jewish state in your column.
How can you possibly claim to seek "stability" while tacitly supporting the very violence you de-cry? Then there's the "Death to America" thing and the denial of the "Holocaust"; just "ignoring" Israel and insulting America and Americans won't make both of these countries "go away".
When you can write a column suggesting "normalizing" relations with Israel, then, perhaps, I might start believing some of what you say.
5
I have some sympathy with Mohammed Javad Zarif because no matter what Iran does or says the country is stuck between a rock and a hard stone. The rock and the hard stone being the Republicans and Israel. Netanyahu has already stated that he is frustrated that Iran might keep to the deal.
Both the Iranian President and Zarif are attempting to soften the hardliners, the Ayatollah is hopeful but needs the keep the balance between both sides. Another fly in the ointment is America’s half hearted ally, Saudi Arabia who is running amok in Yemen.
For these talks to succeed the Saudis, Israel and the GOP need to be muzzled and not take the track of backing Iran into an impossible position.
If these talks fail it will be America that takes the brunt of the blame as far as the other negotiating partners are concerned. Iran does not want war but others do and after the chaos in Iraq, I dread to think of the eventual consequences if the lunatics are left in charge of the asylum.
Both the Iranian President and Zarif are attempting to soften the hardliners, the Ayatollah is hopeful but needs the keep the balance between both sides. Another fly in the ointment is America’s half hearted ally, Saudi Arabia who is running amok in Yemen.
For these talks to succeed the Saudis, Israel and the GOP need to be muzzled and not take the track of backing Iran into an impossible position.
If these talks fail it will be America that takes the brunt of the blame as far as the other negotiating partners are concerned. Iran does not want war but others do and after the chaos in Iraq, I dread to think of the eventual consequences if the lunatics are left in charge of the asylum.
5
Spoken like a true Brit., the same country that fired on an unarmed passenger ship carrying Jewish refugees fleeing Europe, and then sent them back to German POW camps....after WWII. No wonder you support Iran.
1
Why no mention of peace with Israel?
5
Wonderful words. Actions speak louder. All sides need to act on achieving peace and prosperity. Dialogue is the natural starting point. Time to discuss.
1
I am hopeful for progress and agree that the shared objectives stated by Mr. Zarif are critically important for stability, but I want to hear more about what the Iranians think should be done to combat the religious extremism which seems to be at the root of many of the problems.
Regardless, thank you for your efforts thus far.
Regardless, thank you for your efforts thus far.
1
One word is missing from this nice speech? Israel!
5
Other great proposals in history: let the fox guard the henhouse; let the arsonist be the fire marshall; let the oil companies run the EPA; let the inmates run the asylum; let Germany have a little breathing room; let Iran bring peace to the "Persian Gulf region."
3
Given the alternatives in that neck of the woods at the moment, Iran is looking more and more rational.
They are also holding together peace in their country which is also an anomaly compared to their neighbors.
Lets talk.
They are also holding together peace in their country which is also an anomaly compared to their neighbors.
Lets talk.
15
I wonder if we wouldn't be better off empowering both Iran and Saudi Arabia as the centers of Shite and Sunni power. They are both despicable dictatorships but they know how to govern and how to control the crazies among them. Let them divide up the ME and so long as they sell us their oil and refrain from exporting violence, we would be all good. As for Israel ... well, there is lots of vacant desert in the American West that's available for settlement. Lower taxes, nicer neighbors, etc. We cant let the Israeli tail wag the American dog.
The are holding together peace in their country....just like Stalin, Mao and Hitler did. Good thinking.
"The Iranian people have shown their resolve by choosing . . . "
REALITY-CHECK: The "Iranian People" aren't allowed/permitted to choose ANYTHING of any consequence.
As an article last month in "Foreign Affairs" magazine, made abundantly clear; the government of Iran is under the firm and unshakable control of the Supreme Leader and hardliners. Though the Supreme Leader is in his late 70s, he, and the hardlliners have taken steps to ensure that nobody but hardliners and ever get into ANY position of power within the Iranian government.
Even people with longstanding, "revolutionary" credentials are barred from standing for election, if they ever gave even the slightest whiff of approval to the GREEN-Movement that protested the stealing, of an already rigged election a few years back.
In fact, the Supreme Leader, took steps to permanently isolate some people who gave no such whiffs of support for the GreenMovement, just simply because they possessed greater, "Revolutionary" credentials than he did, thereby somehow threatening to upset his, and the hardliners' ability to control each and every aspect all real power within their country.
Given this, I WOULD support strikes on Iran, to decapitate the current leadership, and free the people of Iran to govern themselves. If we went in, and took down the Islamic Government, then turned the country briefly over to a UN Protectorate, under some kind of model Constitution-
I'm sure the IranianPeople would soon be just fine.
REALITY-CHECK: The "Iranian People" aren't allowed/permitted to choose ANYTHING of any consequence.
As an article last month in "Foreign Affairs" magazine, made abundantly clear; the government of Iran is under the firm and unshakable control of the Supreme Leader and hardliners. Though the Supreme Leader is in his late 70s, he, and the hardlliners have taken steps to ensure that nobody but hardliners and ever get into ANY position of power within the Iranian government.
Even people with longstanding, "revolutionary" credentials are barred from standing for election, if they ever gave even the slightest whiff of approval to the GREEN-Movement that protested the stealing, of an already rigged election a few years back.
In fact, the Supreme Leader, took steps to permanently isolate some people who gave no such whiffs of support for the GreenMovement, just simply because they possessed greater, "Revolutionary" credentials than he did, thereby somehow threatening to upset his, and the hardliners' ability to control each and every aspect all real power within their country.
Given this, I WOULD support strikes on Iran, to decapitate the current leadership, and free the people of Iran to govern themselves. If we went in, and took down the Islamic Government, then turned the country briefly over to a UN Protectorate, under some kind of model Constitution-
I'm sure the IranianPeople would soon be just fine.
4
Kind of like how taking out Saddam would result in peaceful democracy breaking out in Iraq?
We've heard the "they'll welcome us as liberators" nonsense before, haven't we? Poppycock!
the huge educated young population will deal with this and probably fairly soon if we DO NOT interfere. To interfere now will more likely turn the young educated and huge population against us. We need more cultural exchanges with Iran..and Iranians.
People in the USA and elsewhere have gotten addicted to fighting wars with other people's money and other people's kids. The current bloodbath in Yemen - where we are basically helping to take out the only force that has effectively combatted AQAP is the height of this madness. Time to end this before our economy collapses or worse.
8
What Zarif is REALLY saying is this:
We were surprised how soft President Obama was in the nuclear negotiations. Sec. Kerry was especially gullible. We got far more than we ever expected, including the guaranteed right to develop atomic weapons quickly at the end of the treaty period. Before Obama and Kerry exit the scene, we sure want to bargain with them further, on other issues. While these two entitlement liberals are determined to give things away, we have much that we could like to get from the United States in further concessions. When Obama and Kerry are gone, our long range goal is still exactly what the Supreme Ayatollah rants, "Death to America" and "Death to Israel." Maybe Hillary will help us accomplish these goals, as Obama did. But if she's not elected, we want to get everything we can before Obama and Kerry depart.
We were surprised how soft President Obama was in the nuclear negotiations. Sec. Kerry was especially gullible. We got far more than we ever expected, including the guaranteed right to develop atomic weapons quickly at the end of the treaty period. Before Obama and Kerry exit the scene, we sure want to bargain with them further, on other issues. While these two entitlement liberals are determined to give things away, we have much that we could like to get from the United States in further concessions. When Obama and Kerry are gone, our long range goal is still exactly what the Supreme Ayatollah rants, "Death to America" and "Death to Israel." Maybe Hillary will help us accomplish these goals, as Obama did. But if she's not elected, we want to get everything we can before Obama and Kerry depart.
9
Zarif speaks as if the Iranian government is representing the Iranian people. The people in Iran have nothing to say about in the theological dictatorship. The Iranian government is probably the best in the World when it comes to "playing" the western governments. They agree to a plan then they disagree, then they want to talk, then they don't allow inspections. They are playing a game of poker and they don't want the game to end. They want keep playing until they go "all-in", announcing their first nuclear test-bomb....
5
Your supreme leader says over and over that the US is not to be trusted. Look up the word "projection."
4
Mr. Zarif-Why does your government call for the destruction of Israel?
Why do you continue to support Hamas in Gaza?
Why do you continue to support Hezbollah?
In short, the American people are more savvy then you think, and we will not buy your house of cards.
However,our President and Secretary of State seem to be willing customers.
Why do you continue to support Hamas in Gaza?
Why do you continue to support Hezbollah?
In short, the American people are more savvy then you think, and we will not buy your house of cards.
However,our President and Secretary of State seem to be willing customers.
9
The American people, wether we are 'savvy' or not, have other things to worry about than just Israel. Keep it in mind, we are sick of Israeli belligerence and assumptions of where America stands regarding Israeli security, and sick of the disrespect that is so evident these days, your comment included.
These are good questions and I hope Zarif answers you! My understanding is that Iran supports the position of independent Palestinian organizations, not the Western puppets like Abbas, who would accept Israel, though not initially as a Jewish state (let's not rub their noses into the loss of their lands in 48), along the 67 borders with a meaningful right of return for many, but not all, of the refugees. Pretty simple. Iran follows these Palestinians' lead. It doesn't impose an Iranian agenda. To characterize Iran as calling for "destruction" as if they are chomping at the bit to send their million man army to liberate Palestine and nuke Tel Aviv is false and inflammatory.
As far as Hamas, they won their elections in what Jimmy Carter's center for democracy determined was one of the fairest elections they had ever monitored. Iran supports democracy, unlike the hypocritical U.S. elites. Hamas says it would honor a fifty year cease fire with Israel under fair conditions for the Palestinians.
Hezbollah formed AFTER Israel's rampages into Lebanon to rout Arafat. They are a defense force protecting Lebanese territory from Israeli aggression. They are Lebanon focused. Iran supports the security and territorial integrity of Lebanon.
But I can't speak for Iran. Zarif, answer this anonymous person's questions!
As far as Hamas, they won their elections in what Jimmy Carter's center for democracy determined was one of the fairest elections they had ever monitored. Iran supports democracy, unlike the hypocritical U.S. elites. Hamas says it would honor a fifty year cease fire with Israel under fair conditions for the Palestinians.
Hezbollah formed AFTER Israel's rampages into Lebanon to rout Arafat. They are a defense force protecting Lebanese territory from Israeli aggression. They are Lebanon focused. Iran supports the security and territorial integrity of Lebanon.
But I can't speak for Iran. Zarif, answer this anonymous person's questions!
He calls it "The Wider Persian Gulf Region", kind of reminds me of the Japanese referring to the "Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" just before they launched their imperial march across Asia.
Iran clearly has imperial designs on the middle east, just ask the non-Shiites of Lebanon, Assads opponents in Syria, and most of Yemen.
The average Iranian might not buy into the daily chanting of 'death to America, death to Israel', but the leaders clearly do, and they are not about to share the levers of power. Maybe they won't use their nuclear weapons to attack Israel, but their nuclear program is just a part of their imperial designs. We should tailor our policy to reflect that understanding. To do otherwise would be naive.
Iran clearly has imperial designs on the middle east, just ask the non-Shiites of Lebanon, Assads opponents in Syria, and most of Yemen.
The average Iranian might not buy into the daily chanting of 'death to America, death to Israel', but the leaders clearly do, and they are not about to share the levers of power. Maybe they won't use their nuclear weapons to attack Israel, but their nuclear program is just a part of their imperial designs. We should tailor our policy to reflect that understanding. To do otherwise would be naive.
6
Iran, and everyone, this newspaper, needs to be talking about Israel's threatening, intimidating nuclear arsenal, which emboldens its right wing and its aggressions against Iran, the Palestinians, Lebanon, Syria ... Talkin' 'bout it signing the non-proliferation treaty, talkin' 'bout intrusive inspections using the identical protocols being negotiated for Iran. Talkin' 'bout eliminatin' their weapons of mass destruction. Talkin' the nuclear blues. Not talkin' about it is utter hypocrisy.
22
Israel wouldn't exist without an aggressive, defensive demeanor. Without that arsenal it would be inviting *another* Jewish bloodbath.
The regional approach buttressed with an international backing under the UN as pleaded by Javad Zarif to solve the problems of the greater Persian Gulf region, currently under turmoil, seems quite sensible a suggestion, and there's no harm if the nuclear dialogue is further extended to address the issues of regional stability and peace through such multilateral effort. This will also help Iran to join the International mainstream and insentivise it to play a more responsible role in the Middle East and beyond.
12
Zarif's suggested "regional dialogue," is predicated upon "respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity....inviolability of international boundaries.... impermissibility of threat or use of force". Would this mean a cessation of the Iranian "death to Israel" mentality or is Israel excluded from Zarif's "relevant regional stakeholders"? A formal recognition of Israel's right to exist might be one litmus test of Iranian sincerity.
6
And the second litmus test must be Israel giving the world a map showing where the boundaries of Israel end and Palestine start..or Is Israel always to be thought of as a special case which can break international laws with impunity.
Yes, I was looking for that assurance as well. His comments are thoughtful and sensible, but until Israel is included in the sovereign territory in his comments, one is still left with doubt about his sincerity.
On the other hand, Israel is not willing to be a part of the solution either as they don't respect territory.
oy what a mess.
On the other hand, Israel is not willing to be a part of the solution either as they don't respect territory.
oy what a mess.
My favorite part of this otherwise dreary piece of bureaucratic gibberish cum hornswoggle comes when Mr. Zarif slyly inserts the humorous note that the nuclear treaty will promote “protection of the environment.” The Times editors must have been totally asleep not to catch this. Had they been even partially awake, they surely would have moved the column to a new section of the paper called “Bad Jokes, Snow Jobs and Pulling the Wool Over President Obama’s Eyes.”
5
This reply from the state that elects people like Ted Cruz. Whose eyes are you trying to pull the wool over.
IRAN is the most important country from India/China to Morocco and that without respecting Its Interests, the Middle East will keep burning for years to come.
OUR policy in the Region had been to Isolate Iran by Supporting/Empowering Saddam & the House of Saud, Tolerating Israel's occupation of Palestine and allowing Pakistan to become the training ground for "Saudi Sponsored Global Terrorism".
LAST time Iran reached out to the US was post 9/11 that was instrumental in defeating the Taleban/Al-Qaida in Afghanistan but unfortunately the GW Bush Administration rewarded Iran with the Leadership of the Axis-of-Evil!
THAT "Cardinal Error" led to the election of Mr. Ahmadinejad and now that we have a Moderate Government in Iran willing to engage the International Community despite all that has transpired, WE MUST take advantage of this "Watershed Opportunity" and respond in kind.
IRAN is the ONLY country in the Middle East that Matters and that I will take Iran as an ally over the House of Saud et al Any Day.
OUR policy in the Region had been to Isolate Iran by Supporting/Empowering Saddam & the House of Saud, Tolerating Israel's occupation of Palestine and allowing Pakistan to become the training ground for "Saudi Sponsored Global Terrorism".
LAST time Iran reached out to the US was post 9/11 that was instrumental in defeating the Taleban/Al-Qaida in Afghanistan but unfortunately the GW Bush Administration rewarded Iran with the Leadership of the Axis-of-Evil!
THAT "Cardinal Error" led to the election of Mr. Ahmadinejad and now that we have a Moderate Government in Iran willing to engage the International Community despite all that has transpired, WE MUST take advantage of this "Watershed Opportunity" and respond in kind.
IRAN is the ONLY country in the Middle East that Matters and that I will take Iran as an ally over the House of Saud et al Any Day.
14
An alliance with Iran would be very powerful and effective. Our alliance with the Houde of Saud has been a disaster.
10
Words are cheap. It is actions that are the real currency. What does Iran need an ICBM program for? ICBM's meaningless without nuclear weapons and have very limited peaceful uses, if any. Only when Iran stands down in the nuclear and collateral areas, can its words be taken seriously.
4
So why do you require your ICBM's?
What does the USA need an ICBM program for?!
3
This is a very nice Article from Iran's Foreign Minister. Mr. Zarif and Iran should be applauded for reaching out to the US with their message of peace. Of course, one could be cynical and see this as a ploy to cement gains in Yemen. However, it would be very simple to test Iran's sincerity by ensuring that the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states include Israel. If they are serious in their interests we should welcome this with open arms.
Imagine a Middle East with a functional forum for dialogue and economic redevelopment for the region, mutual denunciation of proxy wars, and full recognition of Israel. It may be only a fantasy but what would we actually lose from reaching for this olive branch?
Imagine a Middle East with a functional forum for dialogue and economic redevelopment for the region, mutual denunciation of proxy wars, and full recognition of Israel. It may be only a fantasy but what would we actually lose from reaching for this olive branch?
5
I applaud the "message" from Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif. It's quite a contrast from the letter sent to Iran by newly-elected Senator Tom Cotton and 46 of his Republican colleagues as they attempt to undermine any "deal" with Iran. Mr. Zarif is literally offering an "open hand" to further engagement on issues that have us mired in endless sectarian wars against radical Sunni militants in Iraq and Syria and now Shiite rebels in Yemen. The U.S. does lack a coherent, "holistic" political vision for the region that alternates from backing Sunni Saudi Arabia and its virulent Wahhabism that spawned both al-Qaeda and ISIS in Yemen against Iranian-backed Shiite Houthis while siding with Iran and Shiite-dominated Iraq in attacking these very same Sunni terrorists. A "regional dialogue" with Iran is essential to snuffing out this religious war. But to do so, the United States must reaffirm in Constitutional principle of religious neutrality to restore its credibility as an "honest broker" for peace in the region. The alternative is to let Saudi Arabia, Israel and the Republicans lead us into a major war that consumes the oil-rich region and threatens the world's economy.
20
I will take this propaganda seriously when John Kerry is allowed to write his 'Message from Washington' in the Tehran Times.
5
Mr. Zarif’s message was no doubt cleared at the highest level. It is Iran’s unclenched fist extended as a gesture of peace. Our leaders, at the highest level, should reciprocate by extending their own unclenched fist in peace.
Important progress was indeed made in Switzerland this month between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. In order “to seal the anticipated nuclear deal,” we, the American people, need to show our own resolve by defeating an emerging axis of mischief that seems bent on derailing a negotiated nuclear agreement with Iran: Saudi Arabia, Israel and some members of our own Congress, including 47 Republican senators.
Such derailing could lead to a deadly military confrontation with Iran, which we must avoid by heeding this peaceful signal from our Iranian wise adversary, thus putting “this manufactured crisis to rest,” rejecting war and possibly recasting our own alliances.
These steps could help the entire region of the Middle East resolve its own social, cultural and religious differences peacefully, and could also lead to the formulation of a new, even-handed foreign policy for the Middle East, one that is based on our own national interest and not tainted by the corrupting influence of special interest groups and lobbies.
Important progress was indeed made in Switzerland this month between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. In order “to seal the anticipated nuclear deal,” we, the American people, need to show our own resolve by defeating an emerging axis of mischief that seems bent on derailing a negotiated nuclear agreement with Iran: Saudi Arabia, Israel and some members of our own Congress, including 47 Republican senators.
Such derailing could lead to a deadly military confrontation with Iran, which we must avoid by heeding this peaceful signal from our Iranian wise adversary, thus putting “this manufactured crisis to rest,” rejecting war and possibly recasting our own alliances.
These steps could help the entire region of the Middle East resolve its own social, cultural and religious differences peacefully, and could also lead to the formulation of a new, even-handed foreign policy for the Middle East, one that is based on our own national interest and not tainted by the corrupting influence of special interest groups and lobbies.
24
Millions of people have been killed in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Libya. The perpetrators of these crimes are know; they are those who recruit, train, finance and transport terrorists. These oil rich Arab countries get all the support from Washington. The Obama administration makes it easier for these Arab countries to be aggressive and to engage in heinous crimes. What we observe in Iraq and Syria and in Yemen are crimes against humanity. This must stop not to discuss as the Iranian minister suggested.
4
The simple fact that Mr Zarif's cogent message is being published in the NYT implies that his message has the backing of the Ayatollah. Unlike our own system of governance, Iran's official pronouncements must have the backing of its religious leadership.
Therein lies both the opportunity and the risk, for at the root of the middle eastern traumas lie the ancient hatreds of competing theologies, augmented today by weaponry and propaganda on Sunni, Shiite and Jewish sides.
Ironically in today's theocratic war, the Shiites of Iran have not inflicted as much terror or war on either the region or the US as have the Sunnis of the Arab nations. That America views Iran as more of a threat than say Saudi Arabia is strange.
That is no doubt the legacy of the hostage taking during Mr Komenei's reign, the continuing rhetoric of Shiite leaders condemning America as the devil incarnate & the various Shiite guerrilla activities Iran has sponsored against Israel. If not for those, American attitude to Iran on the nuclear issue would be no different than our attitude to Pakistan on same.
Then there is Israel, the outsized agent provocateur in these negotiations. Perhaps therein lies the risk and the opportunity for Mr Zarif.
Iran would stun the geopolitical world by recognizing Israel's right to exist in peace with its neighbors. Such a move would be a breakthrough at very little geopolitical cost to Iran. It would however require more political will on the part of the Ayatollah.
Therein lies both the opportunity and the risk, for at the root of the middle eastern traumas lie the ancient hatreds of competing theologies, augmented today by weaponry and propaganda on Sunni, Shiite and Jewish sides.
Ironically in today's theocratic war, the Shiites of Iran have not inflicted as much terror or war on either the region or the US as have the Sunnis of the Arab nations. That America views Iran as more of a threat than say Saudi Arabia is strange.
That is no doubt the legacy of the hostage taking during Mr Komenei's reign, the continuing rhetoric of Shiite leaders condemning America as the devil incarnate & the various Shiite guerrilla activities Iran has sponsored against Israel. If not for those, American attitude to Iran on the nuclear issue would be no different than our attitude to Pakistan on same.
Then there is Israel, the outsized agent provocateur in these negotiations. Perhaps therein lies the risk and the opportunity for Mr Zarif.
Iran would stun the geopolitical world by recognizing Israel's right to exist in peace with its neighbors. Such a move would be a breakthrough at very little geopolitical cost to Iran. It would however require more political will on the part of the Ayatollah.
110
I like that TDurk. Unfortunately though, if Iran did so, then the bar set by western extremists (Yes I wrote that, and yes they are among us) would then be moved and set higher, and higher, and higher, until Iran submitted as a Vassal state or War ensued; either one of which would be the only pleasing outcome to such. I think this was a central point of the Op-Ed.
The regional approach buttressed with international backing under the UN as pleaded by Javad Zarif to solve the problems of greater Persian Gulf region, currently under
1
Iran is not a monolithic entity, composed entirely of theocrats and brainwashed anti-western zealots. It has an extremely long history of deep global engagement and progressive ideology, and I have no doubt that at least a kernel of that history remains in their culture at large. What kind of backward, bellicose population would reject, out of hand, the idea of improved relations with a longtime enemy who appears ready to finally come to the table and engage in some genuine diplomacy? Oh, right - Americans.
272
AFeinstein: while it is not a monolithic entity, only a fool would believe the theocrats are not entirely in charge of the agenda.
i really love to know how you acquired your knowledge about Iran cause you seem to be completely influenced by political propaganda.
Precisely, or perhaps we could be a bit more fair and say "Americans who see a nice profit in continuing enmity." And perhaps add "Americans who can't imagine real peace since the world is full of evil hell bent on bringing down God's country, the Promised Land, etc, etc. In any case, let's not lump us all together in such a cauldron of opportunism and hate. A few Americans, perhaps too few, can give peace a chance.
At some point, trust and respect must define world relationships. I don't think civilization will survive without these two things.
9
Well said, Mr. Zarif.
But sometimes U.S. "interests" get in the way of common sense.
The League of Nations/United Nations was "conceived" as an umbrella organization but sometimes the U.S. prefers to go off and do it's own thing.
We (the United States), do not always "play well with others".
But sometimes U.S. "interests" get in the way of common sense.
The League of Nations/United Nations was "conceived" as an umbrella organization but sometimes the U.S. prefers to go off and do it's own thing.
We (the United States), do not always "play well with others".
8
Iran is using a classic strategy of good cop/bad cop against us.
Here, Mr. Zarif is playing the reasonable sounding good cop. Meanwhile Mr. Khamenei, the true ruler of Iran, denounces us daily as "the enemy" and the "Great Satan" to angry mobs chanting "Death to America!".
We should listen, we should negotiate, but we should not be fooled.
Here, Mr. Zarif is playing the reasonable sounding good cop. Meanwhile Mr. Khamenei, the true ruler of Iran, denounces us daily as "the enemy" and the "Great Satan" to angry mobs chanting "Death to America!".
We should listen, we should negotiate, but we should not be fooled.
8
In the mean time the war in Yemen is escalating just like Syria with increased civilian casualties . This is the first time I can remember of US government taking no action to evacuate US citizens including children from the combat zone. Other countries have evacuated thousands and our ambassadors flee while US allies using US made airplanes and weapons target civilians.
Not one of the brighter moments for this administration.
Not one of the brighter moments for this administration.
1
It is time for partisan politics in Washington to give way to such insightful comments. I applaud Mr. Zarif for contributing to the international dialogue in such a thoughtful way that is focused on the safety, security, prosperity and health of all people in all parts of the world.
18
Mark, You write, "I applaud Mr. Zarif for contributing to the international dialogue in such a thoughtful way that is focused on the safety, security, prosperity and health of all people in all parts of the world." EXCEPT FOR JEWS!
If all chaos and wars are ended, how could bomb makers and warmongers of the world survive? The world is in chaos because one of main exports of the U.S., Russia, China and the European countries is killing machines not constructive ideas. Just look at our own congress, most members are there to protect interests of "Military Industrial Complex" and the oil giants, not interests of those who voted for them. Until greed exist and politicians are selected by their money masters, nothing would change in this world.
15
Mr Zarif is a silver tongued talking head. What he says is worthless. The Revolutionary Guard has already demanded there be no inspections of military nuclear facilities, after such inspections were negociated in good faith.
Sadly, the Iranians lie freely to further their political goal of exporting the "revolution" of Shia world domination. It is probably a mistake to bother to hold talks with them. I hate to say it but the republicans in congress are probably right on this issue.
Sadly, the Iranians lie freely to further their political goal of exporting the "revolution" of Shia world domination. It is probably a mistake to bother to hold talks with them. I hate to say it but the republicans in congress are probably right on this issue.
10
No sovereign country would allow inspection of its military sites by its enemies, why should Iran be an exception? Would Americans allow Russians to inspect all of the US military bases? Last time there were inspections some Iranian scientists were identified by the inspectors, and later those scientists were assassinated by Israel's agents.
"Iranians lie freely"? How long have you lived in Iran and how many Iranians have you known in your life? How dare you judge a nation!
And please stop idealizing yourself, just take a look at the US politics, since Roosevelt ...and you will find a long history of lies and distortions by the US Presidents...leading to massacre after massacre outside the US.
"Iranians lie freely"? How long have you lived in Iran and how many Iranians have you known in your life? How dare you judge a nation!
And please stop idealizing yourself, just take a look at the US politics, since Roosevelt ...and you will find a long history of lies and distortions by the US Presidents...leading to massacre after massacre outside the US.
Shia world domination? Where are you getting that from?
I agree with him completely. He makes perfect sense. The problem is that the US is heavily invested in profiting from wars and war stuff. The US is owned by these corporations (and Wall Street and oil..all related). Their goal is to ensure perpetual war. They are more likely to support extreme right wing Iranians than this sensible eloquent man.
26
As I read some comments its clear that many have succumbed to our corporate media version of the world. Iran is no saint, few nations are, but their actual involvement in the crisis in Yemen has been minimal.
If one simply reads history rather than corporate media you'll find that the shifting clan, religious and ethnic groups that make up Yemen have been in various stages of conflict for many years. Saudi Arabia has in fact previously supported the current strong man who they are now fighting against and has intervened in Yemen previous to this current conflict.
The real problem in the region is the US. The Bush administration proclaimed a policy of preemptive war and a hit list for "regime change." Libya, Iraq and Syria were all on that list and all are now failed states, in total chaos with violence spreading all across the region. The Iraqi casualties from our war are now estimated at 1 million. The refuges from our proxy wars now total 3 million. This is the largest humanitarian crisis since WWII and if Americans no longer have any sense of moral responsibility they should at least act pragmatically and realize that Iran and the US do have a common interest in keeping this turmoil from spreading.
Whether sanity and common sense will overcome propaganda and orchestrated lies remains to be seen. But if our government still represents "we the people" it will act and act now to engage with Iran and all other countries to bring an end to this tragic violence.
If one simply reads history rather than corporate media you'll find that the shifting clan, religious and ethnic groups that make up Yemen have been in various stages of conflict for many years. Saudi Arabia has in fact previously supported the current strong man who they are now fighting against and has intervened in Yemen previous to this current conflict.
The real problem in the region is the US. The Bush administration proclaimed a policy of preemptive war and a hit list for "regime change." Libya, Iraq and Syria were all on that list and all are now failed states, in total chaos with violence spreading all across the region. The Iraqi casualties from our war are now estimated at 1 million. The refuges from our proxy wars now total 3 million. This is the largest humanitarian crisis since WWII and if Americans no longer have any sense of moral responsibility they should at least act pragmatically and realize that Iran and the US do have a common interest in keeping this turmoil from spreading.
Whether sanity and common sense will overcome propaganda and orchestrated lies remains to be seen. But if our government still represents "we the people" it will act and act now to engage with Iran and all other countries to bring an end to this tragic violence.
24
Reminds one of the anodyne rhetoric that the USSR and other communist/totalitarian regimes consistently employed during the Cold War, providing fodder for the "useful idiots" such as the New Left historians of the 1960s that blamed the entire conflict on the US. Andrei Gromyko could have written this essay 50 years ago, and one can only imagine the course of subsequent events if we had believed his rhetoric.
9
Actually it was L. Brezhnev who credited himself for new USSR policy and gave himself Golden star medal. It was called 'Мировое сосуществование" (Peaceful co-existence). By the way, it did not stop him from making more nuclear weapons.
As far as New Left historians are concern, most of them are hippy generation mentality harvest, which not all that bad. But some, like political correctness, public school education - it is a bit over the board.
As far as New Left historians are concern, most of them are hippy generation mentality harvest, which not all that bad. But some, like political correctness, public school education - it is a bit over the board.
So how many of your family will be signing up for active duty in Iran after your war gets underway? Huh? None???
In fact, the Cold War WAS largely the fault of the U.S., which as the dominant world power after WWII had the ability to "contain" Soviet foreign policy, which was largely defensive, but chose instead to go on the offensive to keep the world safe from the "Red Menace," - i.e. expropriation of the capitalists by the people.
Zarif correctly states that 'noninterference in internal affairs' should be the norm.
I guess that Bibi doesn't know this, by not only taking sides in the presidential elections of the US, but then standing in the hallowed halls of Congress, calling for outright war on Iran and purposefully insulting our twice elected president.
Zarif's response to the letter of our oh-so-learned 47 constitutional 'scholars' in the Senate proved that his knowledge of the Constitution of the US was far superior the the one that penned this kindergarten style letter and the other 46 that signed it.
I guess that Bibi doesn't know this, by not only taking sides in the presidential elections of the US, but then standing in the hallowed halls of Congress, calling for outright war on Iran and purposefully insulting our twice elected president.
Zarif's response to the letter of our oh-so-learned 47 constitutional 'scholars' in the Senate proved that his knowledge of the Constitution of the US was far superior the the one that penned this kindergarten style letter and the other 46 that signed it.
44
Mr. Zarif's letter shows a command of the underlying regional history and conditions that have given rise to the chaos and suffering in the Mideast. It offers a forward thinking and broad based approach to resolving conflicts and developing cultures of tolerance and cooperation.
As he is speaking for the Iranian government and people, we should respond with corresponding courage, wisdom & resolve. Mr. Zarif offers us a voice of engagement and a recognition of the role of international governing bodies. If we fail to respond to this opening, what conclusions will be drawn in Tehran regarding Mr. Zarif's internal plea for moderation and compromise ? Can we really sit as passive witnesses as the Mideast continues to unravel & bleed ?
As he is speaking for the Iranian government and people, we should respond with corresponding courage, wisdom & resolve. Mr. Zarif offers us a voice of engagement and a recognition of the role of international governing bodies. If we fail to respond to this opening, what conclusions will be drawn in Tehran regarding Mr. Zarif's internal plea for moderation and compromise ? Can we really sit as passive witnesses as the Mideast continues to unravel & bleed ?
27
Silver tongues are abundant; we have one in the White House. Their ideas are persuasive, but they sound hollow in view of the past. and present history. However, what is the alternative ---more butchery, more madness, more waste of resources? Why not start a dialogue in the United Nations? What is there to lose?
3
Well, there was a dialog in the UN about Iraq, but then that not-with-a-silver-tongue-equipped president of ours felt it necessary to lie us (and the whole world) into an illegal war and torture.
Mr. Zarif is a nuclear scientist. He is a very smart and articulate man. If our Republican members of Congress were as intelligent and rational as he is, the peace process would be achieved much faster.
The world has a lot to lose if we don't give negotiations and peace a chance. The real obstacle to progress are the extreme Republicans, Netanyahu's and he's religious fanatics. We cannot afford to squander a unique chance to alter the course of history in that region of the world and straighten ourselves.
The world has a lot to lose if we don't give negotiations and peace a chance. The real obstacle to progress are the extreme Republicans, Netanyahu's and he's religious fanatics. We cannot afford to squander a unique chance to alter the course of history in that region of the world and straighten ourselves.
45
You're right Mr. Zarif is a very smart man and a nuclear scientist. He was in charge of the Iranian program to hide the construction of the hidden nuclear facilities such as Fordo and lie about it for years to the United nations and the world. In fact he wrote a book on how he hid Iran's nuclear program.
Truly a trustworthy individual to rely on to make an agreement on Iran's nuclear ambitions and expect him to tell the truth.
Truly a trustworthy individual to rely on to make an agreement on Iran's nuclear ambitions and expect him to tell the truth.
1
Zarif is a international relation professor not a nuclear scientist but fair comment
M.r Zarif is not a nuclear scientist but a veteran diplomat.I suppose you are referring to Dr Salehi who is the Iranian counterpart of American energy secretary Mr moniz. Both MIT graduates.
I found this op-ed article by Iranian FM Zarif to be most prescient - the Middle East is in turmoil, and only the regional powers there can bring all parties together to resolve their differences.
Iran (Persia) has been a regional power in west Asia/the Middle East for millenia, and is returning to that role again now. The already hold significant influence in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. That influence will grow and expand throughout the region.
This presents a unique opportunity for the United States to further engage with the Iranians to resolve those regional issues in a supporting role as we are not a Muslim or an Arab nation and have no standing in their quarrels. The issues, quarrels, in the Middle East are between Arab and Muslim groups - they have their own culture and way of doing things and only they can resolve their own quarrels and issues.
The Iranians are a Muslim nation, and as such, can speak with all of their neighbors in the region to (help) broker long-term peace, stability, and economic prosperity for all nations in the region.
Iran has already demonstrated its influence in the region, much to their credit. By working with the Iranians in this endeavor, we will be helping ourselves - the United States - redeem inself in the eyes of Muslims worldwide, and Arabs, particularly in the Middle East, hopefully restoring some of our lost influence, prestige, and respect suffered with the Iraq and Afghanistan debacles.
Iran (Persia) has been a regional power in west Asia/the Middle East for millenia, and is returning to that role again now. The already hold significant influence in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. That influence will grow and expand throughout the region.
This presents a unique opportunity for the United States to further engage with the Iranians to resolve those regional issues in a supporting role as we are not a Muslim or an Arab nation and have no standing in their quarrels. The issues, quarrels, in the Middle East are between Arab and Muslim groups - they have their own culture and way of doing things and only they can resolve their own quarrels and issues.
The Iranians are a Muslim nation, and as such, can speak with all of their neighbors in the region to (help) broker long-term peace, stability, and economic prosperity for all nations in the region.
Iran has already demonstrated its influence in the region, much to their credit. By working with the Iranians in this endeavor, we will be helping ourselves - the United States - redeem inself in the eyes of Muslims worldwide, and Arabs, particularly in the Middle East, hopefully restoring some of our lost influence, prestige, and respect suffered with the Iraq and Afghanistan debacles.
33
Quite rightly the comments seem to be of one accord on the proposed accord. I will add that if everything is going to be put on the table why not hand over the guy in your state dept who carried out the Synagogue bombing in Buenes Aries. After that throw in the heros who blew up a restruant full of dissident Kurds in Germany and then sit down and look at this statement:
"The wider Persian Gulf region is in turmoil"
The braineless gutless meritricious narrative perpetuated by Hollywood and embraced by the White House that America is just nutty kucko about invading muslim countries and destroying Islam is done. It turns out Bush was right. Iran is indeed one of the two remaining spokes on the axis of evil. Under the wise and enlightened leadership of the current administration it now controls the political life of four once sovereign states and of course it's very own frankensteing- Hezbollah.
How anyone could deal with this wanton repulsive evil idiot is just beyond me. The only thing I take comfort in is the certainty that the Times will be reporting shortly that the Administration is quietly letting the deal die to save face because the nation will not have it- it's just too fantastically stupid.
"The wider Persian Gulf region is in turmoil"
The braineless gutless meritricious narrative perpetuated by Hollywood and embraced by the White House that America is just nutty kucko about invading muslim countries and destroying Islam is done. It turns out Bush was right. Iran is indeed one of the two remaining spokes on the axis of evil. Under the wise and enlightened leadership of the current administration it now controls the political life of four once sovereign states and of course it's very own frankensteing- Hezbollah.
How anyone could deal with this wanton repulsive evil idiot is just beyond me. The only thing I take comfort in is the certainty that the Times will be reporting shortly that the Administration is quietly letting the deal die to save face because the nation will not have it- it's just too fantastically stupid.
2
A voice of sanity in this miasma of wishful thinking and beautifully worded idiocy. While you were at it, you could have asked about Iran's desire to blow Israel off the face of the earth in view of its comments about the regional dialogue and "good relations" with its neighbors. As true as the rest of his nonsense.
This letter, while simple and workable, is way too complicated for some of its intended recipients.
There are Sunni led terrorist groups, funded mostly by Saudi Arabia and the GCC states, that will not ever accept a solution based on negotiations as this would diminish their power and influence.
The same goes for quite a few governments in the region that use these terrorist groups as a proxy combatant against Iran.
Again, the Saudi government is one of the major obstacles in this area when it comes to negotiate peace.
Also, last but not least, the US government will not want to understand a concept of peace by negotiations in the region.
Too many interests and pressure groups between the White house and the two Houses will try to keep the US the major obstacle to peace in the region as there is much more money to be made by arms deals for the Sunni states.
Would the US get out of the region and simply stop all arms support immediately, the ideas as shown in this letter would stand a chance of becoming a reality.
But as long as the US needs a "theatre of war" in the region, as outlined in some strategy papers by various "think tanks", there will be more bloodshed and more problems ahead.
There is but one solution, get out and let the locals handle the issue on their own.
Without massive arms support by the US, the Sunni coalition would be forced to negotiate a peace for the region.
After which ISIS could be eliminated as a threat by regional powers as well.
There are Sunni led terrorist groups, funded mostly by Saudi Arabia and the GCC states, that will not ever accept a solution based on negotiations as this would diminish their power and influence.
The same goes for quite a few governments in the region that use these terrorist groups as a proxy combatant against Iran.
Again, the Saudi government is one of the major obstacles in this area when it comes to negotiate peace.
Also, last but not least, the US government will not want to understand a concept of peace by negotiations in the region.
Too many interests and pressure groups between the White house and the two Houses will try to keep the US the major obstacle to peace in the region as there is much more money to be made by arms deals for the Sunni states.
Would the US get out of the region and simply stop all arms support immediately, the ideas as shown in this letter would stand a chance of becoming a reality.
But as long as the US needs a "theatre of war" in the region, as outlined in some strategy papers by various "think tanks", there will be more bloodshed and more problems ahead.
There is but one solution, get out and let the locals handle the issue on their own.
Without massive arms support by the US, the Sunni coalition would be forced to negotiate a peace for the region.
After which ISIS could be eliminated as a threat by regional powers as well.
7
This a very sober, thoughtful analysis of the situation in the Persian Gulf Region and Mr. Zarif makes very reasonable and achievable proposals for stabilizing the area. A first step is a regional conference of all the regional stakeholders: the Arabian Peninsula countries, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Syria and Egypt. Convened by the United Nations. Security Council permanent members should monitor the discussions. Zarif is right in emphasizing the need to eliminate terrorist groups.
As he points out, to alleviate the problems in the region will require "courageous leadership[". Indeed, that is what's needed rather the grandstanding being offered by members of our Congress. Let's hope his proposals get traction.
As he points out, to alleviate the problems in the region will require "courageous leadership[". Indeed, that is what's needed rather the grandstanding being offered by members of our Congress. Let's hope his proposals get traction.
10
Beautifully stated. In my opinion, the people of the United States are being misled by particular interests to jeopardize a treaty that could move us into healthier relations with the Middle East. But I also believe that despite the motivations of the obstructionists that prefer tension, sanctions and threats, a treaty will come to pass, and with it, a new era of cooperation and more open communication and will be at hand.
92
Many comments here reflect resentment of those in Iran who chant slogans of hatred towards the U.S. Of course this does not reflect the attitude of all Iranians but undoubtedly there is a deep resentment there towards the U.S. I wonder why? It seems that the U.S. has continuously meddled in Iranian affairs and repeatedly tries to impose its will on the region in which Iran lives. Another aspect of this is that there is an unrelenting campaign in the U.S. to present Iran as a big, bad boogie man. For example, Iran is of course behind all the troubles in Yemen. If so, it would seem hypocritical for the U.S. to complain about an activity they regularly engage in. Zarif is right, better to talk and learn to cooperate. Give the reasonable people in both countries a chance to work out differences and forget those who like to chant slogans, be they in the U.S. or Iran.
15
"We need a sober assessment of the complex and intertwined realities here, and consistent policies to deal with them. The fight against terror is a case in point.
One cannot confront Al Qaeda and its ideological siblings, such as the so-called Islamic State, which is neither Islamic nor a state, in Iraq, while effectively enabling their growth in Yemen and Syria."
That is a very complex and indirect way of saying the Saudi Arabia is not really our friend, it is our problem. It is a plea to be seen as the enemy of your enemy.
He's right about that, of course.
One cannot confront Al Qaeda and its ideological siblings, such as the so-called Islamic State, which is neither Islamic nor a state, in Iraq, while effectively enabling their growth in Yemen and Syria."
That is a very complex and indirect way of saying the Saudi Arabia is not really our friend, it is our problem. It is a plea to be seen as the enemy of your enemy.
He's right about that, of course.
22
The mouse party kindly requests the elephant party to "make the choice between cooperation and confrontation, between negotiations and grandstanding, and between agreement and coercion."
Is there some common ground or set of shared principles on which the two parties could agree to renounce confrontation and coercion? Or is the extended conversation between Iran and the US no more than a Melian dialogue of the deaf?
The 2013 Geneva interim agreement and now the Lausanne framework agreement have awakened hope that, within the corridors of the elephant, the methods of cooperation and rational compromise have not yet entirely vanished.
Unfortunately that is entirely Obama's doing and once he is gone, not one of the likely candidates on either side shows any sign of being able or willing to oppose the exceptionalists, the Zionists or the arms merchants all of whom are united in opposition to any deal with Iran. Why should the mighty elephant give a mouse the time of day?
Especially now in this era of Super Pacs in which the billionaires can freely purchase their favorite candidates.
Is there some common ground or set of shared principles on which the two parties could agree to renounce confrontation and coercion? Or is the extended conversation between Iran and the US no more than a Melian dialogue of the deaf?
The 2013 Geneva interim agreement and now the Lausanne framework agreement have awakened hope that, within the corridors of the elephant, the methods of cooperation and rational compromise have not yet entirely vanished.
Unfortunately that is entirely Obama's doing and once he is gone, not one of the likely candidates on either side shows any sign of being able or willing to oppose the exceptionalists, the Zionists or the arms merchants all of whom are united in opposition to any deal with Iran. Why should the mighty elephant give a mouse the time of day?
Especially now in this era of Super Pacs in which the billionaires can freely purchase their favorite candidates.
6
This sensible approach to greater Middle East region's current instability will require new policies from West and Middle East countries. First Middle East should not be considered as the supplier of oil for developed countries, rather distinct culture and sovereign countries in the world's mosaic. Second, Islam has to be separated from the State and allowed to function as distinct religious tradition with freedom of religious practices. Thirdly, the Atab league and non Atab Islamic countries have to create a new block like South Asia to address their problems within the scope of the peaceful negotiations. The first one is the responsibility of West and Obama administration has tKen positive steps. The other two points are responsibility of greater Middle East countries. No significan work has been done on this points. Yemen crisis, gives the chance for Middle East countries to begin this process - let us see the leadership of these countries now.
1
I fear Mr. Zarif doth profess too much. His benign appearance belies the fact that he is the representative of a repressive regime which has spewed destruction in the very lands which he now wishes to "put right".
His "constructive engagement" for the region is duplicitous and his plea for a "holistic" remedy is vacuous given the role Iran has played in disrupting existing governments while supplying insurgents with arms and materiel.
We should hold Iran to "proof by action" modeling, whereby they demonstrate behavioral course correction, much as I hope we are requiring from them in the nuclear talks. Act first, Iran. Redress of your pressures to follow.
The conflict facing Iran and its leaders is clear cut. Trade hegemony for economic recovery. The nuclear issue is merely the card that they hold to engage the west. Without it they have nothing to bargain with and so it becomes the focus rather than a means.
The pressure on Iran and its leadership is growing. Growing from a youthful, secularized majority, while feeling the pressures of economic stagnation.
We should be suspicious of this man's smile and offer to repair the Middle East and not be duped into a meaningless nuclear power argument behind which hides the real issue - Iranian expansion and territorial control.
His "constructive engagement" for the region is duplicitous and his plea for a "holistic" remedy is vacuous given the role Iran has played in disrupting existing governments while supplying insurgents with arms and materiel.
We should hold Iran to "proof by action" modeling, whereby they demonstrate behavioral course correction, much as I hope we are requiring from them in the nuclear talks. Act first, Iran. Redress of your pressures to follow.
The conflict facing Iran and its leaders is clear cut. Trade hegemony for economic recovery. The nuclear issue is merely the card that they hold to engage the west. Without it they have nothing to bargain with and so it becomes the focus rather than a means.
The pressure on Iran and its leadership is growing. Growing from a youthful, secularized majority, while feeling the pressures of economic stagnation.
We should be suspicious of this man's smile and offer to repair the Middle East and not be duped into a meaningless nuclear power argument behind which hides the real issue - Iranian expansion and territorial control.
6
'We should hold Iran to "proof by action" modeling, whereby they demonstrate behavioral course correction'
Sorry, we do not operate this way in the ME. For example, Israel continues to build settlements in the occupied wast bank and tells us that that has no bearing on the issue of the peace negotiations with the Palestinians and we take them at the word for it.
Sorry, we do not operate this way in the ME. For example, Israel continues to build settlements in the occupied wast bank and tells us that that has no bearing on the issue of the peace negotiations with the Palestinians and we take them at the word for it.
Yes, and I would ask Mr. Mohammed if he believes renouncing the "destroy Israel " mantra, mending the schism within Islam and fighting the extremists will advance
the aspirations of the youth in Iran.
the aspirations of the youth in Iran.
1
This guy's hit it on the head. For all the sweet talk, this theocracy brutally now governing is responsible for state sponsored terrorism across the globe. Talk us cheap. Conduct counts.
If the international community cannot inspect freely in a deal, it's WORTHLESS.
If the international community cannot inspect freely in a deal, it's WORTHLESS.
It will be extremely interesting to follow the responses to this message that pundits and politicians here and abroad will soon fill the media with. I suppose that the issue of trust will be foremost on all agendas. Why Iran should trust the West will not factor into the discussion. As always, the campaign to discredit and undermine any potential agreement will be centered on a legacy of bad faith attributed solely to Iran, with no acknowledgement of our history of interference.
None-the-less this calm and reasonable response to the overwrought saber-rattling by some in the U.S. is difficult to dismiss out-of-hand. Mr. Zarif has made the choice to appeal to a wider audience and to clearly state what Iran's negotiation positions are in a comprehensive and rational manner. One has to admire this attempt to defuse the mistrust in this country and the bombastic rhetoric coming from Mr. Netanyahu. This is as transparent as diplomacy gets.
This statement should move the process forward and help strengthen the President's position to get a deal done. It might even signal a new willingness to use joint co-operation as a means toward finding a way to confront extremist violence. An opportunity has been presented, will we have the courage to explore it? Or will it squandered by those whose only answer
thus far has been war or the threat of it. It's our move.
None-the-less this calm and reasonable response to the overwrought saber-rattling by some in the U.S. is difficult to dismiss out-of-hand. Mr. Zarif has made the choice to appeal to a wider audience and to clearly state what Iran's negotiation positions are in a comprehensive and rational manner. One has to admire this attempt to defuse the mistrust in this country and the bombastic rhetoric coming from Mr. Netanyahu. This is as transparent as diplomacy gets.
This statement should move the process forward and help strengthen the President's position to get a deal done. It might even signal a new willingness to use joint co-operation as a means toward finding a way to confront extremist violence. An opportunity has been presented, will we have the courage to explore it? Or will it squandered by those whose only answer
thus far has been war or the threat of it. It's our move.
4
We will see. The alleged Iranian demand that all sanctions be lifted immediately on signing an agreement is not reasonable. Is it a fixed position or only an opening gambit? Further, the practice of radical Islam whether it be Sunni or Shia is hardly conducive to regional peace. Zarif's words are reassuring, but actions speak louder than words.
4
All we are saying is give peace a chance. It just might work, and we have very little to lose by trying.
I'm not expecting the Iranians to be saints, I'm expecting that they've stuck to their deals with us so far and would much rather do that than be on the receiving end of economic sanctions again.
If they want to talk about Daesh / ISIS and lots of other issues once this deal is done, that's fine. The US loses nothing by talking, even if a deal isn't struck, and by talking we gain an understanding of what Iran actually wants to accomplish and what motivates them.
I'm not expecting the Iranians to be saints, I'm expecting that they've stuck to their deals with us so far and would much rather do that than be on the receiving end of economic sanctions again.
If they want to talk about Daesh / ISIS and lots of other issues once this deal is done, that's fine. The US loses nothing by talking, even if a deal isn't struck, and by talking we gain an understanding of what Iran actually wants to accomplish and what motivates them.
20
At the end of his article, he lays out a wish list that would be ours too. It may be bait, but it is what we want to hear.
3
Iran has a long history of supporting terrorism and lying and cheating about its muclear intentions. It has repeatedly stated it would wipe Israel off the map.
Now, the Minister of Propagana whitewashes more.
Now, the Minister of Propagana whitewashes more.
21
Iran also has a long history of coming to the table to negotiate in good faith and standing tall against injustice in the region. And by the way, almost all the countries in the region continuously threaten to wipe israel off the map, not just iran. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is the biggest sponsor of the current terror cancer in the region: ISIS.
3
That is what WE say...that is the view we like to give our general public. Iran has been against al Qaeda, the Taliban, ISIS, etc. from day one. If they support the Palestinians and Hezbollah, perhaps we should look to WHY. Sadly, our government is bought by Israel. As Lindsey Graham said just a few months ago, "Prime Minister (Netanyahu, really, Mileikowsky, but his dad changed it to sound Hebrew and not Polish), we will follow your lead."
3
America have a long history of deposing foreign governments and lying about it!
Israel have a long history of lying and cheating about its nuclear intentions . . It goes both ways and this kind of talk cannot get us anywhere.
I welcome the message from Iran. The constant suspicion of Iran is no longer making any sense. In 2005 there were serious arguments from Isreal that Iran will acquire the bomb in 2010. Then in 2011 it was 2013 . . and Now they still don't have the bomb. I welcome Obama's change of policy, it should a maturity is is rare in politics.
Israel have a long history of lying and cheating about its nuclear intentions . . It goes both ways and this kind of talk cannot get us anywhere.
I welcome the message from Iran. The constant suspicion of Iran is no longer making any sense. In 2005 there were serious arguments from Isreal that Iran will acquire the bomb in 2010. Then in 2011 it was 2013 . . and Now they still don't have the bomb. I welcome Obama's change of policy, it should a maturity is is rare in politics.
1
This is an important plea by Iranian foreign minister. For the past 36 years the United States has tried to isolate Iran and has imposed harsh sanctions on her, not to say anything of all the support that she provided Saddam to wage a devastating eight-year war on Iran, helping Israel’s cyber terrorism aimed at destroying Iranian centrifuges with Stuxnet virus, killing Iranian nuclear scientists, etc.
What Zarif is saying is that not only is Iran prepared to put the legacy of mistrust behind by resolving the nuclear issue, she is also willing to cooperate with the US to resolve regional crises, such as the conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, the ISIS, etc. The NIE has said since 2007 that Iran does not have a nuclear weapons program. The IAEA has repeatedly stated that it has not observed any diversion despite 7,000 man-hour inspections. Western and Israeli intelligence organizations would have discovered a smoking gun had there been one. Even the former heads of MOSSAD have contradicted Netanyahu, saying that Iran is not working towards nuclear weapons. The nuclear issue has been a manufactured crisis to keep Iran isolated.
The question is should the US continue with her futile, failed policy of containment of Iran or is it time to open a new chapter and resolve the mayhem in the Middle East with Iran’s help. It is time to look forward rather than be stuck in the past. Surely saner members of Congress should see this too.
What Zarif is saying is that not only is Iran prepared to put the legacy of mistrust behind by resolving the nuclear issue, she is also willing to cooperate with the US to resolve regional crises, such as the conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, the ISIS, etc. The NIE has said since 2007 that Iran does not have a nuclear weapons program. The IAEA has repeatedly stated that it has not observed any diversion despite 7,000 man-hour inspections. Western and Israeli intelligence organizations would have discovered a smoking gun had there been one. Even the former heads of MOSSAD have contradicted Netanyahu, saying that Iran is not working towards nuclear weapons. The nuclear issue has been a manufactured crisis to keep Iran isolated.
The question is should the US continue with her futile, failed policy of containment of Iran or is it time to open a new chapter and resolve the mayhem in the Middle East with Iran’s help. It is time to look forward rather than be stuck in the past. Surely saner members of Congress should see this too.
95
We must remember what happened the last time the US, especially our then President, was certain that a country had WMD. They were nothing more than a figment of his overactive imagination.
We have examined Iran carefully, the agreement calls for further continuing inspections. For once let's believe the truth sayers instead of the hawks who are looking for another war with which to waste US capital and lives, not to mention countless other lives and capital and culture in the world.
Stop pandering to Netanyahu.
We have examined Iran carefully, the agreement calls for further continuing inspections. For once let's believe the truth sayers instead of the hawks who are looking for another war with which to waste US capital and lives, not to mention countless other lives and capital and culture in the world.
Stop pandering to Netanyahu.
5
You trust terrorists?
1
The Voice of Reason. Thank you Mr. Zarif.
47
Interesting choice of words. "The wider Persian Gulf region..."
17
Excellent point. Yemen is becoming a new version of Czechoslovakia 1939.
1
The ongoing nuclear talks have been turned into a another reason to divert attention from dealing with the real crisis in the Middle East. A story in yesterday's Times, "Sales of US Arms Fuels Wars of Arab States,' goes a long way to explaining our legacy in this region. We need to admit we are not there for peace but rather to facilitate profits for some American corporations. (How else can we explain still having an embassy in Iraq with 9500 employees? )
It may be easier for Congress to follow Bibi Netanyahu's "irrationale" and conclude Iran is the root of all evil but the fact remains the issues are a lot more complex. Mr. Zarif has made some excellent points in his op-ed. It would indeed be positive if the US and its partners in P5+1 focused on stimulating peace rather than punishing Iran, while ignoring "our friends" pursuit of lethal weapons.
It may be easier for Congress to follow Bibi Netanyahu's "irrationale" and conclude Iran is the root of all evil but the fact remains the issues are a lot more complex. Mr. Zarif has made some excellent points in his op-ed. It would indeed be positive if the US and its partners in P5+1 focused on stimulating peace rather than punishing Iran, while ignoring "our friends" pursuit of lethal weapons.
145
What are you talking about? Iran supports terrorist groups.
Yes, of everything I read yesterday the article stating that in 2008 Congress enacted a law that allowed sales of arms to Arab nations only if Israel maintained military superiority. Nevertheless, billions of dollars of arms have been purchased by Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. My 13 year old grandson said "but Israel has nukes, so that should mean that the Arab nations can have anything else, right?" When are we going to make sufficient changes in our policies in the Middle East that reflect the reality that Israel is the rogue nation with nukes and a paranoid leader who will use the bomb? I have confidence that Iran with its long history would want to continue its existence as such.
Wise words from Mr Zarif.
I worry that we will see little real progress as long as we have relatively uneducated Congresspersons who have little understanding of the degree to which the US and other nations have destabilized the Middle East. Daft policy suggestions and actions as perpetuated by the likes of Tom Cotton and many other Republicans reflect the degree of ignorance about the region and inexperience with the conduct of foreign policy.
Iran has been a regional power for millennia. It has a deeper sense of long-term planning than most other younger nations, including the US. Iran would never risk nuclear war as it truly understands the stakes... it has far more to lose that many of the other nations in the Middle East. Iran knows and we are all aware that the US and its allies are still immensely more powerful militarily than Iran should the need arise. But first we must choose the path of dialogue and peace.
We should welcome this opportunity for dialogue and strive to take our battles to the global economic marketplace rather than resort to guns and missiles. But as long as the drums of war are beaten by Israel and the US Congress, there is a real danger of losing this opportunity.
I worry that we will see little real progress as long as we have relatively uneducated Congresspersons who have little understanding of the degree to which the US and other nations have destabilized the Middle East. Daft policy suggestions and actions as perpetuated by the likes of Tom Cotton and many other Republicans reflect the degree of ignorance about the region and inexperience with the conduct of foreign policy.
Iran has been a regional power for millennia. It has a deeper sense of long-term planning than most other younger nations, including the US. Iran would never risk nuclear war as it truly understands the stakes... it has far more to lose that many of the other nations in the Middle East. Iran knows and we are all aware that the US and its allies are still immensely more powerful militarily than Iran should the need arise. But first we must choose the path of dialogue and peace.
We should welcome this opportunity for dialogue and strive to take our battles to the global economic marketplace rather than resort to guns and missiles. But as long as the drums of war are beaten by Israel and the US Congress, there is a real danger of losing this opportunity.
228
"as long as we have relatively uneducated Congresspersons who have little understanding"
They are very well educated and informed and have perfect understanding of the donor money they need to remain in office. That's all they care about.
We can't fix Congress until we fix the donor money problem. Until then, they'll sabotage US interests and betray us. They have to, because anyone who doesn't will be out of office and replaced by someone who does.
They are very well educated and informed and have perfect understanding of the donor money they need to remain in office. That's all they care about.
We can't fix Congress until we fix the donor money problem. Until then, they'll sabotage US interests and betray us. They have to, because anyone who doesn't will be out of office and replaced by someone who does.
OK, fine. Now is Iran going to turn away from "Death to America, Death to Israel, Death to you-name it"?
1
The fact Zarif used "the Persian Gulf region" throughout his op-ed shows that Iran does NOT want peace in the Middle East.
The region is called the ARAB WORLD or the GCC Countries and their neighbors or the Middle East, NOT the Persian Gulf region.
The region is called the ARAB WORLD or the GCC Countries and their neighbors or the Middle East, NOT the Persian Gulf region.
11
Iranians are not Arabs.
5
I agree, it's called the Middle East. However, please use the correct term for the gulf, which is the PERSIAN Gulf and nothing else!
3
It was the Persian Gulf long before there was an "Arab World" or a GCC. And, Persians are not Arabs.
6
Give the deal a chance please! Start afresh!
99
Spoken like a wise and compassionate man. I hope we shake his extended hand and stop the madness in the Middle East.
159
Zarif is not our friend and we are foolishly being mesmerized by his considerable manipulative skills. THis AMERICAN administration POLICIES are actually increasing the possibility of an epic Sunni Shia conflict leading to a cataclismic WW III . Lets face the reality of knowing who are our allies and who are our enemies and comport ourselves appropriately.
"Spoken like a wise and compassionate man" - of course he does, why should n't he? Have you looked at his CV? ( click on link under his name). He is full blown American educated scholar - starting from undergraduate up to PhD.
This all sounds wonderful -- perfect! Now we need to somehow get all of the mosques to stop leading the chant, "America is the devil...Isreal is the devil, England is the devil..." Doesn't do well for our PR.
43
Agreed. Holistically, we need to get churches to stop preaching Islamophobia, and Synagogues to stop preaching Zionism. If it is not a unilateral approach, then it simply assumes righteousness on one side; Americans are quick to assume their fight for freedom is theirs alone, and assumes that aggression arises from the other side of the tracks. We must accept responsibility, not by harping on the past (of which our own is atrocious), nor fearing pessimistic or fear-driven outcomes in the future - we must join in an all inclusive dialogue in this present moment. T
2
That's never going to happen. Just as you're never going to get Americans and other Westerners to stop calling for the destruction of Iran or crusades against Islam. The important thing is for government officials to start acting like grown ups. This is a positive step toward that goal and one we need to match by curtailing the political-motivated actions of members of our own government to undermine grown-up diplomacy. Every time the right wing of the senate sends a condescending letter or a right-wing candidate trolling for votes advocates dropping bombs on Iran, the process is set back.
2
Those chants, as everyone who has been to Iran in recent years, including a recent article by the NYT correspondent just a few pages away, can tell you are no more than a theatrical play whose time has passed a long time ago.
These days the slogans and chants are mostly kept alive by paid for protesters who demand more and more payment for their chanting.
Iran would simply and very quickly become the major US ally in the region and would also, as it has been until recently, a major business partner for Israel.
In fact, there is a feeling for young Iranians that they are closer to the US than to most of their neighbours.
But that is, sadly, a fact that is never mentioned in reports of some of the most influential media in the US, such as FOX & Co..
This would spoil the image Iran has with some of the voter of some of the more primitive war mongers in on the Hill.
These days the slogans and chants are mostly kept alive by paid for protesters who demand more and more payment for their chanting.
Iran would simply and very quickly become the major US ally in the region and would also, as it has been until recently, a major business partner for Israel.
In fact, there is a feeling for young Iranians that they are closer to the US than to most of their neighbours.
But that is, sadly, a fact that is never mentioned in reports of some of the most influential media in the US, such as FOX & Co..
This would spoil the image Iran has with some of the voter of some of the more primitive war mongers in on the Hill.
5
The arsonist responsible for the ripping of syria, backing maliki, holding lebanon hostage and toppled yemen's government using a proxy now wants to be the fireman.
How sweet. Same country that just a few months ago boasted that it ruled 4 arab capitals now wants mediation. Too little too late
How sweet. Same country that just a few months ago boasted that it ruled 4 arab capitals now wants mediation. Too little too late
25
Iran did not invest in supporting Assad until after others invested in radical Islamic terrorists to unseat him. Iran was not in the picture when it was a democracy movement vs Assad.
Maliki was OUR guy. WE put him there. Iran accepted that, and profited from it. The Saudis never accepted that for as long as we were in Iraq.
Lebanon was occupied for twenty years by a foreign army, and left in a state of civil war, and that army was not from Iran. It was Israel's. That civil war was then ended by Assad's army, to general Western approval, so much so that Assad's army was invited to the 1991 Gulf War and we rendered our terrorist suspects to him for torture.
Yemen's government was toppled, again for the second time, by internal factions aligned with the first one toppled. There is no evidence that Iran was behind that. The Saudis are intervening in Yemen, not Iran.
These complaints turn everything upside down. How very Republican, it must play well among Congressional donors.
Maliki was OUR guy. WE put him there. Iran accepted that, and profited from it. The Saudis never accepted that for as long as we were in Iraq.
Lebanon was occupied for twenty years by a foreign army, and left in a state of civil war, and that army was not from Iran. It was Israel's. That civil war was then ended by Assad's army, to general Western approval, so much so that Assad's army was invited to the 1991 Gulf War and we rendered our terrorist suspects to him for torture.
Yemen's government was toppled, again for the second time, by internal factions aligned with the first one toppled. There is no evidence that Iran was behind that. The Saudis are intervening in Yemen, not Iran.
These complaints turn everything upside down. How very Republican, it must play well among Congressional donors.
3
At first I thought you were talking about the USA!
3
To little too late is not an answer. to you have a better solution.
1
What he said.
And for the nay-sayers: consider the alternative. Oh wait, we have been practicing the alternative for decades, for generations, and we have had nothing but instability to show for it. Time to move on past post-postcolonialism. The world has become too small, and too obviously interdependent, to continue with the old ways.
And for the nay-sayers: consider the alternative. Oh wait, we have been practicing the alternative for decades, for generations, and we have had nothing but instability to show for it. Time to move on past post-postcolonialism. The world has become too small, and too obviously interdependent, to continue with the old ways.
79
instability is the goal
To the right wing. Get your head out of the sand and give them a chance.
56
To the left wing . Stop being so naive ! Iran has folded on every treaty or agreement signed by them .
2
No mention of Uranceasing its backing of Hezbollah and Hamas. No mention of Isreal or any hint of change there. And the "plan" for Yemen is galling, it is like the arsonist coming forward with a plan to put out the fire it starts.
This guy is good at stroking Obama though, cleverly appealing to his vanity by use of the term "audacity". If Iran is genuine how about a good faith step such as renouncing its stated policy towards Isareal and withdrawing support for rebels in Yemen. Otherwise this is a cheap promise to talk, and nothing more.
This guy is good at stroking Obama though, cleverly appealing to his vanity by use of the term "audacity". If Iran is genuine how about a good faith step such as renouncing its stated policy towards Isareal and withdrawing support for rebels in Yemen. Otherwise this is a cheap promise to talk, and nothing more.
40
It reads like the Obama admin wrote much of it. Scary, because I have to think the Obama administration might even believe this empty and misleading rhetoric (empty because of Iran's destabilizing actions in the region). It seems to me the Ayatollah and Foreign Minister may be taking victory laps prematurely. "We're the new power in the 'Persian Gulf region, get used to it." I think the Saudis and Israelis are more likely to Allie than "get used to it".
1
This notion that Iran is somehow responsible for Yemen's instability is simply laughable. Most of the country has been out of the control of the central government for most of its history. The Shia comprise almost half of the population, yet were not represented in any way in the government. This crisis is simply a symptom of that disenfranchisement. No government would be able to survive such disparities.
In the entire Middle East there are only 3 countries that officially recognize Israel and one is a member of NATO. The day Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Qatar, UAE, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Sudan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have to recognize Israel, you can expect the same of Iran.
In the entire Middle East there are only 3 countries that officially recognize Israel and one is a member of NATO. The day Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Qatar, UAE, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Sudan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have to recognize Israel, you can expect the same of Iran.
"This guy is good at stroking Obama, cleverly appealing to his vanity" sounds like pretty cheap talk to me. Obama isn't the only person/nation involved.
1
Here's a suggestion for the Iranians . . . get your parliament to stop the desk pounding chants of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel". It is so cold war.
36
I agree. The chants of "Death to America and Israel" are just that, tired and old slogans. But they are just words. The broad sanctions that affect every aspect of Iranian life are far more deleterious than words and do affect millions of people on a daily basis. There's a history behind those words which go back the better part of the last century. Granted most of the grievances happened when many of us weren't even alive, but they have left an indelible mark on the Iranian psyche. The overthrow of Mossadegh, reinstalling the Shah, providing refuge to the Shah, support for Saddam Hussein during the war, turning a blind eye to Saddam's use of WMDs against Iran, shooting down of a civilian airliner over international waters, pinning a medal on the chest of the captain who ordered that shooting, crushing sanctions that have only expanded over the last 35 years. These are real issues that are on the minds of many Iranians, and is where those slogans come from. But admittedly, they are not screamed with same voracity as before, and people are just tired of the never ending conflict. Both sides have claim, and both sides have been wronged. There's no denying the long convoluted history between us. But the United States has dealt with far more menacing adversaries with real power to affect its security with mutually beneficial results, and Iran should be no exception.
5
How about we get the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and condidate for President, to stop singing "bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran."
You know the hostity goes both ways. We can make this sort of complaint all day, or make peace.
You know the hostity goes both ways. We can make this sort of complaint all day, or make peace.
4
Perhaps they will do that once we stop repeating daily that unless they do what makes us feel safe, we are going to bomb them with forces already surrounding them, in addition to the sanctions we have placed on them to cripple their economy.
If a larger military power placed sanction on us because they did not like a military program they "suspected" we have, what would you chant? And if they had helped remove a democratically elected government in our country's past and replaced it with a dictator, would the gentle soul that you are be persuaded to understand why SOME among us would wish it death in our chants?
If a larger military power placed sanction on us because they did not like a military program they "suspected" we have, what would you chant? And if they had helped remove a democratically elected government in our country's past and replaced it with a dictator, would the gentle soul that you are be persuaded to understand why SOME among us would wish it death in our chants?
5
" ...respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states; inviolability of international boundaries; noninterference in internal affairs..." Nice words from a man whose country's official position is that Israel should be wiped from the face of the earth and that supports Hezbollah's approach to diplomacy.
30
Yes, it's obvious that Iran needs to heed its own words of advice. But those words from that essay were obviously directed at the US government, which is the undisputed king of disruption and interference in the Middle East. The point is that everyone is guilty and unless we move forward with a clean slate, that cycle of disruption, which breeds terrorism, poverty and radicalism will just continue. Nobody has clean hands here. To acknowledge that is the first step toward moving forward. Stability brought about by mutual respect for international laws and territorial integrity is nearly an impossible task. But the only chance of it succeeding is to stop pointing to the past and to continue to open old wounds.
1
He has said he'll accept Israel when Israel accepts Palestine. How about it?
The Hezbollah approach to diplomacy does not differ in any important respect from the Israeli approach to diplomacy. How about everybody stops bombing everybody? That is the suggestion derided in this comment.
The Hezbollah approach to diplomacy does not differ in any important respect from the Israeli approach to diplomacy. How about everybody stops bombing everybody? That is the suggestion derided in this comment.
6
As opposed to Netanyahu's statement that there never will be a Palestinian state while he is on watch?
2
His example of a plan for Yemen is telling: AFTER Iranian-backed militants have pushed out the government and occupied much territory, have an immediate ceasefire. In other words, guarantee all the gains of Iran's proxy. It would have been much more impressive if Iran had called for a ceasefire before their allies took any territory and enforced it with an arms embargo.
He's right the region is in turmoil; he's even right that Sunni extremists bear much of the blame. But Iran has been a consistently destabilizing force itself.Not only "Death to Israel" but also "Death to America" are constant chants at staged political rallies. Whether or not the Iranian people want peace (they probably do) is unknowable and irrelevant since they don't have a say in the Iranian theocracy.
He's right the region is in turmoil; he's even right that Sunni extremists bear much of the blame. But Iran has been a consistently destabilizing force itself.Not only "Death to Israel" but also "Death to America" are constant chants at staged political rallies. Whether or not the Iranian people want peace (they probably do) is unknowable and irrelevant since they don't have a say in the Iranian theocracy.
126
Yemen's internal conflict revolves around water shortages first, then the 55-44% religious divisions. That Iran is helping the Houthis against Al Qaeda and ISIS is anticipated.....so is the Saudi help for Al Qaeda and ISIS? Theocracy is not good anywhere. That's why we have the First Amendment in America, to protect us from religion. The "death to...." stuff is troubling everywhere too.
I think that giving the U.S a pass as the most destabliizing force in the middle east in the last 70 years is naive. We created the mess. We have religious nuts in the U.S. that constantly call for death to Muslins, Gays, our own President etc etc. Do you really think the U.S. has the moral high ground here? REally?
2
And whether or not the American people want peace (they probably do) is unknowable and irrelevant since they don't have a say in the American plutocracy.
1
Zarif may mean well, but his government's maximalist stance--no answering IAEA inquiries on previous weaponization programs, refusing thorough inspections, demanding the immediate cessation of sanctions, and pretense that Iran desires an obviously uneconomic civilian atomic power program--certainly make him appear disingenuous.
61
It seems you are backing maximalist demands the other way: confess to all that is in the forged document, allow inspections that have nothing to do with nuclear weapons, suffer the sanctions anyway even if they comply, and give up civilian nuclear activities allowed by the Treaty in question, all as demanded by the one power that didn't sign and has itself violated all of the terms of that Treaty.
1
but the IAEA have never found any evidence to claim that the Iranian nuclear program aims to make nuclear weapons.
untruth media propaganda against Iran is capsizing the truth.
picking up such pessimist comments to be shown by NYT amid the majority of recommended comments which are optimists, is a kind of media propaganda also.
untruth media propaganda against Iran is capsizing the truth.
picking up such pessimist comments to be shown by NYT amid the majority of recommended comments which are optimists, is a kind of media propaganda also.
5
I wonder why Iranian foreign minister whose constituents are suffering from a decade of harsh economic sanctions would want immediate relief from sanctions.
Such an irrational man!
Such an irrational man!
If all goes as normal, the war-mongering folks will pick this piece apart, and with all their wrath and cynicism find every tiny speck that can be used to 'prove' Iran's real intent...to rule the world, no less (yea, right!). And yet we, the U.S. are used to ruling the world, and now we are having trouble becoming humble enough to admit that we really Do All Need One Another to make this tiny speck of earth work! It's so simple, and yet Men have so far made it impossible! More WOMEN in leadership roles, and more real MEN, with a strong feminine, and a little less testosterone, might be of a help. If we took the good of each country to heart, instead of projecting our own treacherous thoughts onto them. perhaps, My God, Your God, All Gods, perhaps we could achieve real peace on this amazing planet. Thank you.
84
Let's have rational, respectful debate. I agree there is a warmongering in the US, but you are seeking women's voices in the debate. Where do you think there are more women's voices in leadership -- US or Iran?
9
Daniel, This is hasbara-speak. There are more women than men enrolled in Iran's universities.
1
@Olivia,
The overwhelming majority of us are generous,peace-loving,folks. We rush to help nations anywhere is distress(earthquake, epidemic,etc). Regrettably, for the past 40 years or so we have a very,very tiny minority among us that wants to drag USA into permeant confrontations with the Muslim world. Not for what the Muslims had done us,but to insure the survive of Israel.
We are moving from one confrontation with Muslim country to next. Witness the daily war drums against Iran on FIX News.
Can these war mongers tell us clearly when was last time Iran attacked,or threaten to attack, USA?
The overwhelming majority of us are generous,peace-loving,folks. We rush to help nations anywhere is distress(earthquake, epidemic,etc). Regrettably, for the past 40 years or so we have a very,very tiny minority among us that wants to drag USA into permeant confrontations with the Muslim world. Not for what the Muslims had done us,but to insure the survive of Israel.
We are moving from one confrontation with Muslim country to next. Witness the daily war drums against Iran on FIX News.
Can these war mongers tell us clearly when was last time Iran attacked,or threaten to attack, USA?
They, the Iranians want to keep the relationship expanding. That is what this is about. They want to do business. And already other western countries and companies are lining up. We are going to lose out, business wise, if we don't keep moving forward. All the issues can be worked out if we have hundreds of billions in trade back and forth. China, a communist country is one of our biggest trading partners and maybe the largest holder of U.S. debt. Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and a host of others we do business with. Many human rights violators and censorship type countries we work with. So why not Iran ? That is the way to make it better, not antagonistic talk and bombing threats every other day. They are willing to forget our history against them and we should also start anew. And the truth is the U.S. injustices toward Iran far out way anything they have done to us.
136
Iran will never forget the history of our actions towards them. They have been around much longer than the U.S. and have long memories.
7
People who cannot forget the past are ever condemned to live in its shadow.
OK .. well 'move past' then ..
"A Message From Iran" is one that urges cooperation and negotiations among nations to avoid the ignition of the fuse to the powder keg that's the Persian Gulf, which would start a runaway inferno that would be very costly to extinguish; the Message From 47 Senate Republicans to Iran and the world is that the US and its allies and Iran should not bother with negotiations because any deal reached with the current US President would be ephemeral.
Even if one questions the sincerity of the message, when an Iranian official hits all the right notes and sounds more reasonable on the international stage and diplomacy than members of the US Congress -- "the world's greatest deliberative body" -- you know that something rotten and scary has gripped the US body politic.
Even if one questions the sincerity of the message, when an Iranian official hits all the right notes and sounds more reasonable on the international stage and diplomacy than members of the US Congress -- "the world's greatest deliberative body" -- you know that something rotten and scary has gripped the US body politic.
590
Speaking words does not correlate with assuring actions.
Comments from quarters that hinge complaints on nuclear weapons, theocracy, and fighting against Al Qaeda and ISIS are profoundly myopic regarding our closest allies in the middle east. It is evident that Zarif has a most rational grasp of the regional issues and the objective solutions. We are plagued and embarrassed by our 47 Adelson employees who don't understand our Constitution and Article II that Zarif is acutely aware of or else the Nuclear negotiations would have been terminated. Ban Ki-Moon should act immediately on Zarif's request.
2
This shows me Zarif knows how to speak persuasively...and our answer to him is John Kerry? That is scary.
Working with Iran could offer the best chance for someone to take enough accountability in the region such that the US could stop wasting time and resources there. The largest threat to American economic and sphere of influence interests is in the other direction.
19
I see no hope for Iran or heavily Muslim countries in general until so many of its inhabitants stop treating religious differences, many of them too small for the rest of us to see, as grounds for violence, preference or discrimination. I'm not one who believes that there is anything inherent in Islam that requires they be that way, but have no doubt either that the need for a general enlightenment is necessary in terms of religion, gender and individual rights. Whether it is on the line suggested by Ayaan Hirsi Ali or El-Sisi doesn't matter, so long as debate replaces killing. Sadly, sometimes violence is the only way to deal with violent people, as we repeatedly learn.
As for this article, please. The Iranian people? They are not the ones making the choices. It's a closed theocratic dictatorship ruled by a few people. I don't doubt that the Iranian people would like to engage with the world on a different basis and have no need of nuclear weapons, but they have no say now or even when election time comes around. I hope they have another successful revolution someday of another sort. Peaceful would be great, but it does not seem to be in the cards.
As for this article, please. The Iranian people? They are not the ones making the choices. It's a closed theocratic dictatorship ruled by a few people. I don't doubt that the Iranian people would like to engage with the world on a different basis and have no need of nuclear weapons, but they have no say now or even when election time comes around. I hope they have another successful revolution someday of another sort. Peaceful would be great, but it does not seem to be in the cards.
37
Americans have short memories and view Iran and the mid east in the way way we would like them to be and not as they are.
Give total access to ALL nuclear facilities any time, all the time forever and then we can have open honest negotiations.
Anything else is just rhetoric.
Give total access to ALL nuclear facilities any time, all the time forever and then we can have open honest negotiations.
Anything else is just rhetoric.
11
would America do that?
26
And Israel?
19
America does not threaten its neighbors, much less the world with a nuclear arsenal which has been in place since 1945, and has not been used since. Our nuclear power is used to defend, not attack. Its very existence staved off a real war with the USSR, thanks to the concept of Mutual Assured Destruction. To believe anything else, is truly mad.
1
Mr. Foreign Minister,
Interesting philosophical discussion and little substance; but let’s focus on today’s main issue concerning specifically Iran. One thing at the time – finish nuclear deal and then we shall see.
And as a diplomat, you should not forget one of major diplomacy trait – trust, which makes cornerstone to all the treaties, agreement, resolutions. etc. Without trust, as today’s world events show, all the latter ones are worthless. Considering ex-presidents Ahmadinejad rhetoric, supported by the supreme leader, nobody in his /her right mind will fully trust Iran for next 50 years. The same applies to Russia, after latest Putin’s diabolical behavior, even when he is gone
Interesting philosophical discussion and little substance; but let’s focus on today’s main issue concerning specifically Iran. One thing at the time – finish nuclear deal and then we shall see.
And as a diplomat, you should not forget one of major diplomacy trait – trust, which makes cornerstone to all the treaties, agreement, resolutions. etc. Without trust, as today’s world events show, all the latter ones are worthless. Considering ex-presidents Ahmadinejad rhetoric, supported by the supreme leader, nobody in his /her right mind will fully trust Iran for next 50 years. The same applies to Russia, after latest Putin’s diabolical behavior, even when he is gone
17
I'm no fan of Putin, but diabolical? Yes he annexed the Crimea which was historically part of Russia and the majority of its people are also Russian. We invaded Iraq and caused the chaos that continues to this day. And we did so without any provocation. I think that counts more as a diabolic act than what Putin did. And as far as rhetoric, we in the US haven't exactly been silent towards Iran. "All options are on the table", "regime change", "bunker busting munitions", ever expanding sanctions ongoing for 37 years, siding with Saddam during the Iran-Iraq war, giving Saddam chemical weapons, turning a blind eye to Saddam's use of WMDs against Iran, are not exactly peaceful acts.
1
Iran can help our strategic interests in Iraq, Afghanistan and, yes. in Israel/Palestine. Backing the Saudis has been a terrible blunder. Time to get on a new horse. Iran has a middle class just bursting at the seams to join the rest of the wordl...the Saudis, well they have a bunch of fat,old oligarchs with their boots firmly on the neck of their population. This is an historic moment, on the par with Nixon to China (who could have believed that!!!)...let's look at history andthe greatness that was once Persia. The same can be said for no other player in the region. Time to extend the hand and reap the rewards.
78
Can Iran help us in Israel/Palestine by as Ayatollah Khamenei said in a twitter post "This barbaric, wolflike & infanticidal regime of #Israel which spares no crime has no cure but to be annihilated."?
To me that seems super helpful.
To me that seems super helpful.
19
Yeah, the "fat, old oligarchs" sure have their neck firmly holding me back. all they did for me was provide free healthcare, 16 years of free education including a 5 year full paid scholarship to the states, helped with me on the job training and helped me look for a job after I graduated. They sure are a bad and evil government who are oppressing me the average Saudi... Meanwhile the new partner you propose all they do is mercifully murder their citizens in the streets like cattle and provide weapons to any and all terrorists in the region, then they courageously lie to your face like this article, what a great potential partner!
4
Your defense of the Saudi government who beheads people in the streets, who don't allow woman to drive, and even had slavery on the books as legal until 1971 is simply laughable. Yes you got a free education, but the Saudi government has been robbing its people for its own benefit since oil was found there. They took millions for every dollar they threw at their people. With the population it has and the money it makes, it should be a center of industry. Yet in spite of all that money they don't have enough doctors and nurses and engineers and have to import everything. Pride is the last thing I would feel if I were you.
7
Wahhabi Sunnis have been behind nearly every Muslim terrorist act that has occurred on Western soil. They get their money from Saudi Arabia, and the Saudis are chummy with Pakistan, which already has nuclear weapons. Why aren't we investigating how many nuclear warheads might be in the Saudi arsenal? The Saudis haven't been notably supportive of Israel....
67
"Why aren't we investigating how many nuclear warheads might be in the Saudi arsenal? The Saudis haven't been notably supportive of Israel."
That will be next. There's always another one coming down the pike.
That will be next. There's always another one coming down the pike.
3
"Iranian foreign policy is holistic in nature. This is not due to habit or preference, but because globalization has rendered all alternatives obsolete. Nothing in international politics functions in a vacuum. Security cannot be pursued at the expense of the insecurity of others. No nation can achieve its interests without considering the interests of others." If I understand correctly, Javad Zarif includes Syria and probably Lebanon and Gaza into his mentioned "wider Persian Gulf region" that is intended to have a hole, not vacuum, instead of Israel. Indeed, a natural HOLEistic approach.
5
Tie a yellow ribbon around my tree and perhaps your words will get my attention. But demonstrate basic freedoms in your own country, especially for those who are strangling under the weight of your forced religious restrictions - how about the women in your country are they free to do what they want, hardly right? I am sure the current negotiations will to come to nothing as you will not allow access to verification of nuclear sites because they are located on military bases. Oh, where else would nuclear facilities be located - at the mall?
17
Actually, women are freer in Iran than they are in most of the Middle East. Check your facts.
31
actually, being second worst in terms of womens right doesn't make Iran freer than most. check your facts.
According to UNESCO data from 2012, Iran has more female students in engineering fields then any other country in the world As of 2005, 65% of Iran's university students and 43% of its salaried workers were women. 27.1% female ministers in government put Iran among first 23 countries in early 2000s
Restrictions on women's attire do exist and they have some disadvantageous in inheritance laws, but it is far from being the second worst in women's rights. It is you who needs to check your facts.
Restrictions on women's attire do exist and they have some disadvantageous in inheritance laws, but it is far from being the second worst in women's rights. It is you who needs to check your facts.
7
The nuclear framework understanding early April in Switzerland left many questions unanswered concerning intrusive unfettered access to all nuclear installations including military ones. Zarif's conciliatory message written by PR specialists and pro-regime lobbyists doesn't deal with the real issue. How can Zarif and his advisors explain what Hussein Salami Deputy commander of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards Corps, IRGC, said Saturday 18th April 'we answer with bullets to inspectors who want to visit our military sites.'
In an interview with Iran’s main state run television, Salami said Saturday night (April 18th 2015) that 'Iran would never make an agreement with the P5+1 on the basis of verification.' He also reacted to the US officials stressing that the military option remains on the table by saying 'Doctrine, the structure and our military capabilities have been set according to an all-out war with the United States.'
Is it some kind of good cop bad cop scenario? Iran has not come clean on its nuclear program.
All Iran is interested in now is the lifting of sanctions so it can fund its proxies in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.
In an interview with Iran’s main state run television, Salami said Saturday night (April 18th 2015) that 'Iran would never make an agreement with the P5+1 on the basis of verification.' He also reacted to the US officials stressing that the military option remains on the table by saying 'Doctrine, the structure and our military capabilities have been set according to an all-out war with the United States.'
Is it some kind of good cop bad cop scenario? Iran has not come clean on its nuclear program.
All Iran is interested in now is the lifting of sanctions so it can fund its proxies in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.
22
If someone can produce evidence of nuclear activities on a military base then it could be investigated. There has been no evidence and access is being pushed to spy on Iran's conventional military programs.
10
I suppose no sovereign nation would allow inspection of its military sites by the same people who threaten it with military action,would Israel allow that?! Is Israel even a signatory of the NPT?
3
You are misquoting Salami. He was responding to the inspection of Iranian military installations, and he said that Iran would never agree to that. Iran has agreed to reach a deal with the West on the nuclear issue on the basis of full verification and intrusive inspection by the IAEA. She has not offered to surrender to the West and Israel.
The IAEA has inspected all nuclear-related sites and has consistently declared that there has been no diversion from peaceful use. The Israelis fabricated some information that Iran had carried out nuclear-related experiments in Parchin. That document allegedly derived from a laptop has already been proven by experts to be a forgery. Nevertheless, Iran has allowed inspections to Parchin twice and nothing suspicious was found.
The Israelis want Iranian military sites open to inspection anytime they forge a document as they did in the case of Iraq. Iran rightly refuses to play by that game. Had there been any suspicious activities in Iran, the IAEA and Western intelligence organizations would have discovered it. On the contrary, the NIE, the report prepared by 14 US intelligence organizations, reported that there has been no military-related nuclear work going on in Iran at least since 2003. The rest is propaganda.
The IAEA has inspected all nuclear-related sites and has consistently declared that there has been no diversion from peaceful use. The Israelis fabricated some information that Iran had carried out nuclear-related experiments in Parchin. That document allegedly derived from a laptop has already been proven by experts to be a forgery. Nevertheless, Iran has allowed inspections to Parchin twice and nothing suspicious was found.
The Israelis want Iranian military sites open to inspection anytime they forge a document as they did in the case of Iraq. Iran rightly refuses to play by that game. Had there been any suspicious activities in Iran, the IAEA and Western intelligence organizations would have discovered it. On the contrary, the NIE, the report prepared by 14 US intelligence organizations, reported that there has been no military-related nuclear work going on in Iran at least since 2003. The rest is propaganda.
2
Not kosher, mostly old news. Where's the halvah? Where's the baklava? That's what I want to know.
Now more likely than before that the final deal will consist of three parts: (a) framework signed by Kerry (b) NYT opinion signed by Zarif and (c) hour-long "I told you so" Bibi interview by Friedman. Long live diplomacy.
Now more likely than before that the final deal will consist of three parts: (a) framework signed by Kerry (b) NYT opinion signed by Zarif and (c) hour-long "I told you so" Bibi interview by Friedman. Long live diplomacy.
5
Nice thoughts, Mr.Zarif. But before we start, how about you stop doing the following?
- Threatening to erase Israel off the map and funding Hezbollah
- Supporting murderous Asad regime in Syria
- Funding and arming Houthis in Yemen
- Funding and arming Iraqi Shia Militias and their sectarian blood letting.
If you do the above, I am sure the world will accept you as a normal country. Otherwise, words are cheap.
- Threatening to erase Israel off the map and funding Hezbollah
- Supporting murderous Asad regime in Syria
- Funding and arming Houthis in Yemen
- Funding and arming Iraqi Shia Militias and their sectarian blood letting.
If you do the above, I am sure the world will accept you as a normal country. Otherwise, words are cheap.
67
In other words just do as the USA tells the world and not support legitimate interests.
15
"legitimate interest" It is totally legitimate for Iran to support a murdered who is closing in on the Million murder mark, and to support rebels that are destroying Yemen, Lebanon, Libya, Tunisia and so on. How dare the US tells Iran to stop the senseless support to terrorists in the region.
Dear Mikael, answer to your points:
1.Iran has never threatened to wipe Israel of the map and this is an interpretation mistake widely used to demonize Iran, but Iran has justified reservation about Israeli behavior towards Palestinians which is shared by many other countries.
2.Syrian government is a legitimate government fighting terrorists supported by Saudi and other fundamentalist sunni states.
3.Houthi movement is a big faction of the yemeni society and no evidence is provided for the accusation that they are backed by Iran.
4.Those Shia militias are fighting ISIL in Iraq and are the main force behind liberation of most Iraqi cities under ISIL rule.
Thanks.
1.Iran has never threatened to wipe Israel of the map and this is an interpretation mistake widely used to demonize Iran, but Iran has justified reservation about Israeli behavior towards Palestinians which is shared by many other countries.
2.Syrian government is a legitimate government fighting terrorists supported by Saudi and other fundamentalist sunni states.
3.Houthi movement is a big faction of the yemeni society and no evidence is provided for the accusation that they are backed by Iran.
4.Those Shia militias are fighting ISIL in Iraq and are the main force behind liberation of most Iraqi cities under ISIL rule.
Thanks.
7
Mr. Zarif unfortunately is standing in the shadow of history among a world order of Islamic paranoia and Israli hawkishness. However, writing an op-ed in the NYT's is a smart place to communicate to the non-Arab, non-Muslim world. Iran is at an unusual crossroad of history where their role in global affairs might make an enormous impact toward cooling down Middleeastern hot wars and stable and peaceful borders. Likewise, Iranian philosophy towards Israel needs to grow much more practical, symbolic in nature but without ignoring the plight of Palastinies. Their current stance is out-of-phase with global powers and the Palastinies need relief (now) that can only improve if Iran is functioning in the world order cooperatively. President Obama sees this process appropriately and the Senate must understand that the Iranian population is young and educated and hope to move toward peaceful coexistence and cooperation.
47
Supporting the Green movement in 2009-10 could have been Obama's legacy of greatness in this regard. Unfortunately, he missed that and is left giving into Mullahs and Guard generals in what even the French have hinted is a disadvantageous deal. I truly share your sentiment but Obamas's deal could prove tragic given the easy conditions for Iran and the potential for nuclear proliferation in the region.
1
Sounds reasonable to me.
32
I didn't see "Israel" mentioend anywhere. Iran would have a lot more credibility it recognized Israel's right to exist. THAT would have been worthy on an op-ed which is something other than a puff piece.
66
He said 'peaceful coexistence with our neighbors'.... who do think he ment ?
22
Everything is not always about Israel. To me, it's a foreign country and a client state that we waste billions of dollars of taxpayer money on, that could be better used to repair infrastructure at home.
40
Why would they recognize Israel? The only way to control the middle east is through delusional islamic militias that are wreaking havoc in the region, and once Iran openly supports Israel or even recognizes it then all those Militias will stop listening to Iran and will stop doing their bidding... Hezbollah for example would stop being loyal to Iran and will stop backing Assad.
1
I never bought "The Axis of Evil" propaganda meme put forward in that famous State of the Union speech 13-years ago in the drum-up to invasion. The disrespect we showed then, haunts us today.
Of course Iran wants to be part of the larger discussion of the disenfranchised radical element of the current middle east conflict. They live at the heart of it. Of course the nuclear talks are a way into these discussions.
It has been obvious to me that the Obama administration without saying so publicly, has been headed in this direction, one engaging step at a time. I don't think I'm alone in thinking this.
We Americans would be foolish not to offer a little trust in finding some mechanism to work with Iran. Ambassador Zarif is begging to be heard, and we should be in the front row. After 35-years, Isn't it time?
Of course Iran wants to be part of the larger discussion of the disenfranchised radical element of the current middle east conflict. They live at the heart of it. Of course the nuclear talks are a way into these discussions.
It has been obvious to me that the Obama administration without saying so publicly, has been headed in this direction, one engaging step at a time. I don't think I'm alone in thinking this.
We Americans would be foolish not to offer a little trust in finding some mechanism to work with Iran. Ambassador Zarif is begging to be heard, and we should be in the front row. After 35-years, Isn't it time?
339
How soon you forget 8 years of idiotic leadership from Bush II. If they can forgive us, we can forgive them.
205
What evil is that exactly ????
4
Well said.
Off course Mr Zarif is the foreign minister not ambassador.
Off course Mr Zarif is the foreign minister not ambassador.
4
Let's be realistic: Iran will have military nuclear capabilities with or without agreement. What should we expect from a nuclear power when oil is cheaper, when its land is arid, when its population expanding?
Surely it will continue terrorizing the world.
There is only one way to stop this terror nation. But the US wasted its military power and international influence on unjustified, stupid and damaging wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now the west is weak and we will see the middle east burning.
Surely it will continue terrorizing the world.
There is only one way to stop this terror nation. But the US wasted its military power and international influence on unjustified, stupid and damaging wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now the west is weak and we will see the middle east burning.
5
So says a resident of the nation (USA) that has been responsible for several million civilian deaths since WWII.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/why-do-we-ignore-the-civilians-ki...
I guess that they all wanted to die to have the USA bring democracy to their countries!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/why-do-we-ignore-the-civilians-ki...
I guess that they all wanted to die to have the USA bring democracy to their countries!
16
So you think the answer is another unjustified, stupid and damaging war then?
16
As far as I know Iranian land is not arid and I know it as I live in it.Iran's population is expanding but I don't see that a reason for terrorizing the world.
Maybe just an American "critical thinker" would see terrorizing the world the solution for population growth!
Maybe just an American "critical thinker" would see terrorizing the world the solution for population growth!
6
Some interesting thoughts on trying to bring peace to the region from the government that arms Hezbollah and the Houthis.
19
Better to continue our support for the country that supported Al Qaeda before 9-11?
2
This imminently sensible op-ed demonstrates the importance of a new Iranian-U.S. partnership, one which the Obama administration is seeking to craft. Iran is the country that is most closely identified with both our national interests. Israel is the least. We must move forward with the Iranian deal, and swiftly move away from the rogue government in Israel.
104
Again what is Israel has to do with Iran promoting terrorism in the last 35 year. Burning US flags, the supporting the Bashar gassing his citizens in Syria. did you watch last night 60 minutes.
5
What Israel has to do with it is that their treatment of the Palestinians and continued confiscation of Palestinian territory for settlements is the justification all of the other Islamic countries use to condemn Israel. I am surprised that the talks going on now don't include requirements for changes in Israel.
Israel is an aggressive country fomenting anger throughout the mideast. Their treatment of Palestinians, and the U.S.'s continued support of them in spite of them ignoring all our requests to curtail settlements and treat the Palestinians better is incomprehensible to me. I am afraid it is understood in the mideast as a puppet state of the U.S. I could only wish it was a puppet and when we pulled a string they danced, but it is the opposite. Our government dances to their tune. Shame on us.
Israel is an aggressive country fomenting anger throughout the mideast. Their treatment of Palestinians, and the U.S.'s continued support of them in spite of them ignoring all our requests to curtail settlements and treat the Palestinians better is incomprehensible to me. I am afraid it is understood in the mideast as a puppet state of the U.S. I could only wish it was a puppet and when we pulled a string they danced, but it is the opposite. Our government dances to their tune. Shame on us.
6
Intriguing language, but is Iran ready to form an equivalent of the European Union, and trade some degree of sovereignty for peace and regional economic and political power?
2
Is Israel ready? Is Saudia Arabia ready? Iran isn't the only country on the playground.
24
Israel has been ready for the lat 68 years. Is Ahmadinejad ready? Is Nasrallah ready? Is Bashar el Assad ready?
2
Your information seems thoroughly out of date - Mahmoud Ahmadinajad lost his seat in an election to Hassan Rouhani. Rouhani ran on a platform of negotiating a peace with Western governments, and since taking power in 2013 has been in talks with both the EU and US to do exactly that.
And before you counter that the real power lies with Ayatollah Khameini, know that Rouhani could not have even run without Khameini's approval, and Khameini by all appearances is supporting these efforts for a deal. The people most interested in derailing it are the Likud government in Israel and the Republican Congress in the US.
And before you counter that the real power lies with Ayatollah Khameini, know that Rouhani could not have even run without Khameini's approval, and Khameini by all appearances is supporting these efforts for a deal. The people most interested in derailing it are the Likud government in Israel and the Republican Congress in the US.
11
" One cannot confront Al Qaeda and its ideological siblings, such as the so-called Islamic State, which is neither Islamic nor a state, in Iraq, while effectively enabling their growth in Yemen and Syria."
Mohammad Javad Zarif is absolutely correct. The US cannot continue with a cherry pick strategy of fighting the Islamic State and sibling jihadist organizations. The nuclear accord with Tehran is just the beginning of a major American policy realignment in the region.
Mohammad Javad Zarif is absolutely correct. The US cannot continue with a cherry pick strategy of fighting the Islamic State and sibling jihadist organizations. The nuclear accord with Tehran is just the beginning of a major American policy realignment in the region.
188
Sorry, we should have stayed in Iraq, and destroying Bashar el Assad. But with this current (weak) administration dreaming is the status quo. Do you remember the famous Obama's Cairo 2009 speech?
1
Do you remember that it was Bush that signed the agreement with Iraq for the complete withdrawal of American troops from Iraq. All you right-wingers conveniently forget about that and Bush's other blunders and when Obama tries to make peace, after we have killed hundreds of thousands of their citizens you call him weak.
Bush was a weak coward who never went to war but sent others to their deaths and strutted like the cowboy he was.
Bush was a weak coward who never went to war but sent others to their deaths and strutted like the cowboy he was.
10
Since 1953 the United States has:
Deposed an elected government in Ira,
Installed a dictator, the Shah,
Trained the Savak, the Shah's brutal secret police,
Armed and funded Saddam Hussein to fight Iran,
Gave Saddam satellite imagery to improve his use of chemical WMD's on Iran,
Shot down Iran Air 655, killing 290 civilians, 66 of them children,
Cyber nuked Iran, with unknowable potential consequences,
Tried to starve Iran with sanctions,
Has Senators and Congressmen continuously threatening war.
After 62 years of failure why not give diplomacy, cooperation and peace a chance?
Deposed an elected government in Ira,
Installed a dictator, the Shah,
Trained the Savak, the Shah's brutal secret police,
Armed and funded Saddam Hussein to fight Iran,
Gave Saddam satellite imagery to improve his use of chemical WMD's on Iran,
Shot down Iran Air 655, killing 290 civilians, 66 of them children,
Cyber nuked Iran, with unknowable potential consequences,
Tried to starve Iran with sanctions,
Has Senators and Congressmen continuously threatening war.
After 62 years of failure why not give diplomacy, cooperation and peace a chance?
481
Because they (Iran) have not shown the will in deeds, only (reecently) in words.
1
Because the thugs ruling Iran will not stop killing innocent people in the region. because they back Assad the modern day Hitler. Because they are arming thugs in Yemen and expect people to not stop them.
1
Tell us Craig, what do we owe a country that has threated to cut off the Straight of Hormuz? Held American's hostage for over a year; hiding secret bomb factories in the mountains...has killed and maimed our US servicemen in Iraq and Afghanistan with their IED's, has threatened our international bases,has kidnapped former marine Amir Hekmati and former FBI agent Robert Levinson, has bombed with "plausible deniability" in Bangkok, Venezuela, Bulgaria, has attempted to assassinate Saudi diplomat on US soil...etc,etc...
3
How nice all this sounds. I assume that many are willing to believe Mr. Zarif and President Rouhani of Iran. Why not give peace a chance?
I tend to take the Iranians at their word. There is nary a ceremony, public meeting, holiday, or gathering in which the background mantra of "Death is Israel" is not chanted.
http://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-marks-army-day-with-cries-of-death-to-...
http://www.timesofisrael.com/amid-chants-of-death-to-israel-iran-leader-...
This is not just noise or letting off steam, although the world press usually ignores this and does not seem to be concerned.
So if one finds the message of peace from Iran re-assuring and one is willing to believe that then please be aware that other messages are coming out of Iran in a continuous and regular non-stop manner. Should one not believe these messages of "Death to Israel"? No reason not to.
I tend to take the Iranians at their word. There is nary a ceremony, public meeting, holiday, or gathering in which the background mantra of "Death is Israel" is not chanted.
http://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-marks-army-day-with-cries-of-death-to-...
http://www.timesofisrael.com/amid-chants-of-death-to-israel-iran-leader-...
This is not just noise or letting off steam, although the world press usually ignores this and does not seem to be concerned.
So if one finds the message of peace from Iran re-assuring and one is willing to believe that then please be aware that other messages are coming out of Iran in a continuous and regular non-stop manner. Should one not believe these messages of "Death to Israel"? No reason not to.
22
Certainly factions exist within Iran that still hate Israel, quite understandably if you ask me. But we are negotiating with the government, not the factions. If you want to talk about factions look at the rhetoric that comes out of the mouths of our own factions. McCain with Bomb, Bomb, Bomb. Bomb, bomb Iran. Mr. Orange speaker of the house inviting the war-monger Netanyahu to rally our Congress to make war on Iran. Yes, factions are powerful, but they do not decide the final policies of the governments.
9
"One cannot confront Al Qaeda and its ideological siblings, such as the so-called Islamic State, which is neither Islamic nor a state, in Iraq, while effectively enabling their growth in Yemen and Syria."
Unfortunately that is exactly the policy that Obama - on orders from Riad - is pursuing.
Unfortunately that is exactly the policy that Obama - on orders from Riad - is pursuing.
10
This is a breakthrough. If Iran means what this says and implies, then a regional peace conference is the offer. With Iran as one of the more destabilizing forces on the ground, there is a chance to put much to right. However, any offer of negotiating on a broader set of issues can not be construed as abandoning the nuclear issue. A peace in the Middle East overseen by a few nuclear powers is no peace. If Iran is serious about putting more on the table, we should respond in kind.
34
By mentioning "coercion" twice, he validates the effectiveness of our strategy of economic pressure while "saying all the right things" to attract naive peaceniks.
I hope we stand firm and enjoy the clever negotiations of Obama/Kerry to raise the hopes of the Iranian people so that they can blame Khamenei when he dashes them with impossible demands.
I hope we stand firm and enjoy the clever negotiations of Obama/Kerry to raise the hopes of the Iranian people so that they can blame Khamenei when he dashes them with impossible demands.
17
The most importnat point that Zarif makes is that this Iran thing is entirely a manufactured crisis. Iran was never a threat to any one but more often a victim of other peoples machinations.
178
Tell that to an Israeli - any Israeli
6
what has iran done to israel besides rhetoric?
22
It has funded terrorist organizations such as Hamas and sent weapons for them to use to attack Israel. And that's WITH sanctions. Imagine how much more they can pour into the destruction of Israel without sanctions.
2
How much better would we feel if this column had been authored by Ali Hosseini Khamenei? There is no question that Mr. Zarif is a master of diplomacy, particularly public relations, but will the country's real leaders allow him to accept a deal where all economic sanctions do not end immediately? Or have we effectively already agreed to that, but we can't say so publicly for fear of triggering Congressional ire?
7
We put on sanctions so we could offer to take them back off. If we won't even do that, there is no point in talking. But then, that is the preference of those who demand we keep sanctions.
9
I would think the leaders of Iran vetted this op-ed piece. I can scarcely imagine Khamenei would allow his foreign minister to represent Iran's goals without the approval of the highest levels of Iran's government.
3
This is basic sanity, something that seems glaringly lacking among Western leaders. Are are we going to listen to the voices of common sense that these days seem to emanate primarily from Iran and Russia? Otherwise the danger of a nuclear holocaust on a global scale is staring us in the face.
72
Much of the less-than-sane behavior coming out of Washington in recent years stems from members of Congress who belong in either/both of two camps. #1 Those whose behavior represents the commercial interests of those who paid for their seat, #2 Those who are terrified of/in denial of, the global reality that US is less and less able to call the shots on the international stage unless we use our military. Ironically, the bluster and buffoonery of #2 only serves to hasten the erosion of our prestige and of our relative power. Neither #1 nor #2 is a path towards common sense. The big question is how long must we tolerate this massive dysfunction in our system of government?
238
Common sense coming from Russia as it invades Ukraine and kills a peaceful people? Please. Only in an alternate reality are Iran and Russia the voices of common sense.
9
as long as we allow the war profiteers to buy our elected people
3
America and destroying Israel fits in with cooperation on regional initiatives.