This bulletin highlights significant events in the world of arms control in the coming days,
as compiled by staff and friends of the Arms Control Association.
For more news and analysis on these and other weapons-related security issues, consider subscribing to ACA's monthly journal Arms Control Today. The entire January/February 2014 issue is now available online for all ACA members and digital subscribers.
– the Editors at Arms Control Today
P5+1 and Iran Resolve Issues on Implementation of Nov. 24 First Phase Deal
Earlier today in Geneva, negotiators announced they had resolved the remaining issues regarding the implementation of their first phase agreement on pausing key elements of Iran's nuclear program in exchange for limited and reversible sanctions relief. Pending final approval in each of their capitals, formal implementation of the Nov. 24 agreement will begin before the end of January. The agreement on interpretation and sequencing of the first phase deal opens the way for talks on a comprehensive, final phase agreement.
For more information, see "Iran Nuclear Talks End With Agreement on Outstanding Issues," from Reuters, Jan. 10 and "Iran, P5+1 Prepare to Implement Deal" in the latest, Jan./Feb. issue of Arms Control Today.
Menendez Pushes for New Iran Sanctions Despite White House Veto Threat
Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Ron Kirk (R-Ill.) continue to push their proposal for additional Iran sanctions and requirements for a potential final phase nuclear deal with Iran, S. 1881. In an opinion column in The Washington Post, Menendez says it is an "insurance policy" against a nuclear-armed Iran.
The White House and 10 of Menendez's fellow Senate committee chairs strongly disagree. They argue that S. 1881 would undermine sensitive, ongoing diplomatic efforts to guard against a nuclear-armed Iran. President Obama has threatened the veto the bill, which now has 58 co-sponsors, of which 16 are Democrats. Bill sponsors hope to pressure Senate Majority Leader to schedule a vote when Congress returns to Washington later this month.
For more information see: "New Sanctions Bill Introduced," in the Jan./Feb. 2014 issue of Arms Control Today.
For a critical analysis of the bill, see: "Congress Should Not Sabotage Iran Nuclear Deal with Additional Sanctions," ACA Issue Brief, January 8, 2014.
"2013 Arms Control Person of the Year" To Be Announced Monday, Jan. 13
Each year, since 2007, ACA's staff has nominated several individuals and institutions that best exemplify leadership and action in pursuing effective arms control solutions.
The votes from you are now in and the 2013 winner will be announced Monday. Stay tuned.