Let the games begin!

Talks on the disputed Iranian nuclear program are to take place on Saturday. These talks will be a decisive point where things can really go in any direction based on the stances that are presented at the talks. Most experts seem to think these talks could be the basis for future negotiations, basically laying the groundwork for the subsequent negotiations. There is no history of goodwill or trust to draw on as strength in the process so negotiating from a position of mutual respect is crucial if either side hopes to lessen the tensions in the region. The crucial question mark in all of this is determining the endgame for Iranian Supreme leader Khamenei. As the leader he has the final say on all matters in Iranian affairs, although there has been speculation as to whether he would have the ability to fully enforce his wishes if leaders of the IRG's wishes are not taken into consideration on nuclear matters. Things are not transparent in Iranian politics and the US doesn't have a complete understanding of the inner workings of the Iranian circles of power.

Slow and steady

There has been little movement in the past few weeks. Negotiations have been set between Iran and the P5+1 to begin on April 13th. The US has made it clear there is an opportunity for a peaceful resolution, but as Hilary Clinton has said, the "window of opportunity... will not remain open forever." The Iranian position is that talks with "mutual respect" will cover a range of topics. This obtuseness on the part of Iran and the converse acuteness of the topics open for discussion by the P5+1 may result in little progress. Without a well defined agenda of topics that are on the table to be discussed and agreed to by both sides, it may prove difficult to find common ground and resolution. I would not expect any developments of note from this negotiation, with the main focus being the setting of an agenda for future negotiations.