The Perpetual 'Crisis': How Iran's Nuclear Program Serves Geopolitical Agendas
THE ACTORS: Who defines the 'thorny issues'? The primary actors in framing these 'thorny issues' include the United States State Department, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) under specific Western interpretations of its mandate, and lobbying groups such as the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). The IAEA's reports,
while technical, are often selectively highlighted by certain nations to support their diplomatic positions. For instance, the US and its allies consistently amplify details about 60% enriched uranium stockpiles, while often downplaying Iran's repeated assertions of civilian energy purposes, albeit unverified by international bodies. THE FUNDING: Why the perpetual state of crisis? The perpetuation
of Iran as a primary proliferation threat secures significant funding and influence for various entities. Washington-based think tanks, like the FDD, which received more than $10 million in contributions in 2022, consistently advocate for maximal pressure on Iran. Their funding often originates from opaque donor networks with clear political ties, reinforcing narratives that justify sanctions and
military readiness. Similarly, AIPAC, reported to have spent over $11 million in lobbying in 2023, aggressively pushes for policies that align with Israeli security concerns, often characterized by skepticism towards any negotiated settlement with Iran not fully aligned with Israeli strategic interests. THE INCENTIVES: What is gained from 'thorny issues'? For the US, maintaining Iran as a 'thorny