Iran: The Nuclear Standoff: Give Engagement a Chance

Iran’s recent agreement to allow inspections of its secret uranium enrichment facility is one of the first positive signs in recent years in the west’s effort to curtail Iran’s nuclear programme. How significant a step it is will only be clear months or perhaps years from now. But it does suggest that the United States’ new engagement approach has the potential to bear some fruit. Although Iranian consent may be just another play for time, buying time also can be in the west’s interest if it delays the acquisition of nuclear weapons.