The Iran Nuclear Crisis: A Diplomatic Tightrope and the Potential Role for India
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (Iran Nuclear Deal - JCPOA, International Atomic Energy Agency - IAEA, Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty - NPT, International Groupings - SCO, BRICS); World Geography (Fordow, Bushehr, Strait of Hormuz).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed countries on India’s interests; Important International institutions, agencies and fora—their structure, mandate. The Iran nuclear crisis and its impact on India is a quintessential GS2 topic.
Key Highlights from the News
Iran's Fordow nuclear facility was attacked by the US, leading the E3 (Britain, France, Germany) to activate the "snapback" clause in the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA).
This could reinstate old UN sanctions on Iran, potentially causing a new global nuclear crisis.
Currently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has no access to Iran's nuclear facilities, so the world lacks clear information on what is happening there.
This crisis will directly impact India's national interests, including:
Stability in West Asia.
Oil supply via the Strait of Hormuz.
The safety of 8 million Indians working in Gulf countries.
The article argues that India can play a constructive role in resolving this crisis.
India can encourage Iran to grant IAEA access and offer technical assistance through platforms like SCO, BRICS.
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