TEHRAN(Bazaar) – Tariq Raouf, former Director General of the Atomic Energy Agency says big problem for Malley is Israel and Republicans in the US, plus his support in the State Department is weak.
Following is the text of the Bazaar interview with Tariq Raouf:
Bazaar: The new round of nuclear talks between Iran and the other side of the JCPOA will start on Monday. What is your assessment of this round of talks?
Rauf: In my view, the US is stuck with few options due to strong opposition at home and from Israel on reducing sanctions against Iran, Biden is a weakened president and the Republicans sense his weakness as does Israel. US will come with unrealistic demands. Iran in stronger position, as after US defeat in Afghanistan, Saudis and Emiratis are now trying to reach some truce with Iran. US economic and political attacks on China will strengthen its position to continue with oil imports from Iran bypassing dollars.
Bazaar: According to some news, Iran's nuclear team has brought many economic experts with it to Vienna, and Iran has announced that it is negotiating to lift sanctions. What message does this have for America?
Rauf: As above, more than 1500 US sanctions have to be removed - Iran could identify which ones need to go first and how to confirm and verify that sanctions relief will lead to international business opening up to Iran.
Bazaar: In his recent travels, Robert Malley has been able to gain the support of the Persian Gulf states for a nuclear deal. However, during the Obama administration, the GCC member states opposed the JCPOA. What is your assessment of Robert Malley's trip?
Rauf: Big problem for Malley is Israel and Republicans in the US, plus his support in the State Department is weak.
Bazaar: Some believe that if the talks fail, the United States will probably block the export of Iranian oil to China. Is this possible? Iran sells oil while under sanctions.
Rauf: Oil exports paid by non-dollar accounts, Yuan and barter cannot be blocked by the US.
Bazaar: If negotiations fail, what action might the United States take against Iran at the International Atomic Energy Agency?
Rauf: IAEA is powerless, not much US can do against Iran in Vienna. It will not get support. Iran needs to tell IAEA to be off on JCPOA and just report facts on the ground and stop making demands on Iran. Agency is not a player now.
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