This resolution outlines the terms for an acceptable nuclear agreement with Iran, focusing on complete dismantlement of its nuclear program, enhanced IAEA inspections, and restrictions on uranium enrichment and reprocessing.
Lindsey Graham
Senator
SC
This resolution outlines acceptable terms for a nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the complete dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program, including the disclosure and elimination of all nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons programs. It insists on Iran adopting the IAEA's additional protocols for nuclear safeguards verification, forgoing domestic uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing, and granting unconditional access for international inspectors. The resolution also addresses Iran's past non-compliance and the need to consider its regional behavior during negotiations.
U.S. Resolution Sets 'Complete Dismantlement' as Bottom Line for Any Iran Nuclear Deal
A new resolution outlines a very specific and demanding set of conditions the U.S. would find acceptable for any nuclear agreement with Iran. The core message is unambiguous: any deal must ensure the complete dismantlement and destruction of Iran's entire nuclear program. This means Iran would need to give up domestic uranium enrichment, halt the reprocessing of spent fuel, and cease development of any related infrastructure. The resolution frames these requirements under section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, which governs peaceful nuclear cooperation.
No Nukes, No Kidding: The Resolution's Hard Line
The resolution doesn't mince words about what 'complete dismantlement' entails. It calls for Iran to disclose and eliminate all its nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons programs and remove all its enriched uranium. Furthermore, Iran would be required to permanently forgo any domestic uranium enrichment and the development of infrastructure to support it. To underscore the perceived need for such strict terms, the resolution cites Iran's past nuclear activities, including a reported stockpile of 274.8 kilograms of 60 percent highly enriched uranium as of February 26, 2025, and previous enrichment up to 83.7 percent.
Under the Microscope: Verification and Inspection Demands
Beyond dismantlement, the resolution lays out extensive verification measures. Iran would need to adopt the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) "additional protocols." Think of these as enhanced inspection powers allowing for more intrusive checks. The demands include providing "unconditional access" for international inspectors, including short-notice inspections by the IAEA, and full disclosure of its fuel-cycle information. Inspectors would also need to be able to collect environmental samples from sites beyond those officially declared, have unimpeded access to communications monitoring related to nuclear activities, and receive visas regardless of nationality. The resolution also calls for IAEA verification at manufacturing and export-import locations for sensitive technologies. While comprehensive, broad terms like "unconditional access" could become points of contention if their exact scope isn't clearly defined.
Big Picture, Big Stakes: Context and Consequences
The resolution also wades into broader geopolitical context, noting that negotiations must address Iran's "history of non-compliance, its regime's nature, and its commitment to destroying Israel." While commending the Trump administration for previous direct talks, the document firmly supports a path to peaceful nuclear cooperation only if these stringent conditions are met, referencing Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954. This section provides the legal framework for U.S. peaceful nuclear cooperation agreements, emphasizing non-proliferation and IAEA safeguards. The demand for complete dismantlement and a total ban on domestic enrichment presents a significant challenge, as Iran has consistently asserted its right to peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment. These preconditions could make finding a diplomatic middle ground exceptionally difficult, potentially raising the stakes if an agreement proves unattainable under these terms.