The Global Story: How to stop Iran from building a nuclear weapon

The newly signed US-Iran agreement to end the war faces significant verification challenges, as the current memorandum remains vague regarding prohibited nuclear activities. Effective oversight requires precise language banning production, testing, and procurement, rather than relying on broad, ambiguous terms. Drawing on experience as a former UN weapons inspector in Iraq, David Albright—president of the Institute for Science and International Security—emphasizes that successful monitoring depends on full transparency and the ability to detect clandestine efforts. While the deal mandates a freeze on Iran's nuclear program, the lack of clear definitions for down-blending enriched uranium and the potential for hidden activities necessitate rigorous, ongoing inspections. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this agreement hinges on whether Iran provides a complete, verifiable declaration of its nuclear program and adheres to strict, enforceable rules that prevent the development of weapons.