The US and Iran have reached a 14-point framework for a nuclear agreement. The deal extends the ceasefire and sets the stage for talks on a permanent nuclear agreement. The framework does not include specifics on what will happen to Iran’s enriched uranium or its nuclear program, leaving those details to be sorted out over the next 60 days.

Comparison to the Obama Nuclear Deal

The new framework is being compared to the Obama-era Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Both deals ban Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, but the JCPOA was more specific about how this would be achieved. The JCPOA also included a commitment from Iran to not procure a nuclear weapon.

The new framework says Iran “reaffirms that it shall not procure or develop nuclear weapons.” However, exactly how this will be enforced will be left up to the final deal. The JCPOA allowed Iran to enrich uranium at a limited level, but it is unclear what a Trump-era deal will require.

Sanctions Relief and Funding

Under the JCPOA, Iran was granted relief from international sanctions in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. The new framework says US sanctions will be lifted on an agreed-upon schedule as part of a final deal. The framework also mentions a plan to provide Iran with at least $300 billion for reconstruction and economic development.

The president insists that any investments in Iran would be voluntary. “We are not investing any money in Iran, by the way,” the president said. “The rumor got out there yesterday, it was ridiculous. We have the right to go in some day and do, if I want to do something or if somebody wants to do something. But we are not investing any money, we have no obligation to invest any money in Iran.”

Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.