Iran sealed a deal with the UN about its nuclear program, allowing it to play better with other countries in the UN. There’s major debate over this. Some think it’s a great move; some think it is a horrible move. So what’s the deal?]

BACKGROUND
In July 2015 in Vienna, Austria the United Nations (including the U.S. and the European Union) and Iran concluded 11 years of negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear programs. The UN – Iran Nuclear and Sanctions Diplomatic agreement (formally called the Joint Plan of Action) says that, among other things, Iran will reduce its stock of nuclear materials and centrifuges by 98% and limit the level to which they can enrich the remaining materials for 15 years. This includes allowing UN inspectors into Iran to monitor their progress. In return, the U.S. and the European Union agreed to lift most economic sanctions against Iran.

Definition
Sanction: “an action that is taken or an order that is given to force a country to obey international laws by limiting or stopping trade with that country, by not allowing economic aid for that country, etc.” – Merriam-Webster

The deal was a policy goal of the Obama administration, and Obama, as well as most Democrats, consider it a significant success. Secretary of State, John Kerry, called the agreement “a step away from the specter of conflict and towards the possibility of peace.”

The majority of U.S. dissent comes from Republicans. Many feel that an Iran with more money as a result of relaxed sanctions will pose a greater threat to the Middle East and Israel in particular. Wisconsin Governor and Republican presidential candidate, Scott Walker, said: “The deal rewards the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism with a massive financial windfall, which Iran will use to further threaten our interests and key allies, especially Israel.“
Some feel, most vocally Israeli Prime Minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, that Iran will still be able to build nuclear weapons despite the deal.

The Iran Nuclear deal has re-ignited the simmering debate about America’s role in the Middle East, it’s ties to Israel and the Western powers’ role in world peace. Many see the deal as a step forward to reconciliation between the Western world and a regime that has isolated itself for over 30 years. Others fear that a richer, less constrained Iran will be a greater danger to peace and the global stability.

Is economic difficulty a reason Iranian fundamentalists are supported in Iran? If their economy becomes more prosperous, would that help to reduce support for terrorism?

Should the US determine their dealings with Iran based on its effects on Israel?

WANT MORE?

The Six Biggest Myths About the Iran Nuclear Deal from Vox.

An explanation of the major changes that occurred as a result of Iran’s 1979 Revolution

Infographic: the Specifics of the Joint Plan of Action (The Iran Nuclear Deal)