Iran: Current Developments and U.S. Policy
Abstract
More than two decades after the Nov 4, 1979 seizure of the U.S. embassy in Tehran, signs of moderation in Iran had stimulated the United States to try to engage Iran in official talks. Iran, still split between conservatives and reformers, has not accepted to date. Even though open to engagement with Iran, the Bush Administration and Congress want to continue vigorous efforts to counter Iran's support for terrorist groups and its efforts to acquire weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Iran's human rights practices, particularly its treatment of the Baha'i and Jewish communities, also are a major concern. The Bush Administration has identified Iran's modernization of its conventional forces as a potential threat to U.S. interests in the Persian Gulf, but others argue that Iran still is relatively poorly equipped. Iran's efforts to acquire WMD and delivery means (i.e., ballistic missiles), have made major strides over the past few years, with the help of foreign suppliers. Barred from U.S. or European advanced technology, Iran continues to receive weaponry and WMD-related technology from China, Russia, and North Korea. Iran has opposed the U.S.-led Middle East peace process since its inception in Oct 1991. It continues to provide material support to Hizballah in Lebanon and to Islamic-oriented Palestinian groups that oppose the Arab-Israeli peace process. Current U.S. policy toward Iran marks a shift from the focus on containment that characterized U.S. policy during 1980-1997. President Clinton imposed a ban on U.S. trade and investment in Iran in 1995, and a 1996 law imposed sanctions on foreign investment in Iran's energy sector (Iran-Libya Sanctions Act, ILSA). In keeping with the 1997 policy shift toward engagement, in 1999 and 2000 the Clinton Administration eased trade sanctions somewhat. However, the United States continues to work with its allies to prevent arms and advanced technology sales to Iran and to limit Iran's influence over regional energy flows.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 03, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA476073
Entities
People
- Kenneth Katzman
Organizations
- Library of Congress