0510 GMT: Yesterday we began with the evaluation that the nuclear talks between Iran and the 5+1 Powers (US, UK, Germany, France, China, and Russia) were nearing breakdown and that the Islamic Republic's officials were preparing for the fallout, at home and abroad.
This morning there are some ritual signals from the West's negotiators that all is still fine for the formal meeting in Moscow on 18 -19 June, despite Iran's real or feigned frustration and anger at the refusal of preparatory talks --- the European Union's Helga Schmid said, ""We would feel very encouraged if Iran were ready ... to enter into these discussions" --- but that is not reflected in Tehran.
Instead, Speaker of Parliament Ali Larijani put out his call to get ready for the consequences. He said there must be unity in the Majlis, as "some want to create unrest among the people". Like other officials this week, including the Supreme Leader's representatives, he tried to ensure blame for the fallout was put on the US and its allies, as the "enemy has targeted the economy".
Former President Hashemi Rafsanjani was also putting down markers on Thursday, as "pressures on the Islamic Republic do not allow for a win-win situation". He made certain that he explained that the Expediency Council, which he chairs, "cannot solve all problems".
Press TV offers a bit of balance in its lead Iran story, "Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Iran is serious about engaging in a 'stable' process of negotiation to resolve the issues concerning its nuclear energy program."
For now, however, like most in the Islamic Republic's hierarchy, I am looking to a future beyond the suspension of the nuclear talks, whether that comes before, during, or after the formalities in Moscow. Only a significant signal from the "West" of a willingness to accept an Iranian right to uranium enrichment, with a promise to ease sanctions as a deal is discussed, will avoid that.
Posted via email from lissping
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