Turning point for Iran

Iran’s historic deal on its nuclear programme (Nov.25) with the U.S. and five other world powers is a fantastic example of how constant engagement, dialogue and diplomacy yield rich dividends in ensuring peace. To think that the alternative was war makes this all the more impressive.

One must also appreciate Britain, Germany, France and especially the U.S. in bypassing the protests of their trusted West Asian ally, Israel, as well as the powerful Jewish lobby in inking the deal. It is regrettable that Israel is still pessimistic and overlooking some positive aspects of the deal. One is optimistic that the six global powers will also do their best in finding a peaceful solution to the Palestine problem.

C.A.C. Murugappan,

Kothamangalam

The whole world was indeed waiting with bated breath in anticipation of the ground-breaking nuclear deal that was finally struck on Sunday, and principally involving Iran’s main antagonist. There are several positive spin-offs, the most important being the fading of war clouds that were gathering over the Middle East and in turn affecting the world of commerce. For India, it could spell the revival of the stalled Iran-India gas pipeline project and rekindle trade and commerce. Despite the lone and discordant tone struck by Israel, one hopes that it can be won over and made to see the benefits of engaging with peace.

The Hindu must also be congratulated for featuring this positive story on its front page and with perspectives.

Shahabuddin Nadeem,

Bangalore

Iran’s landmark nuclear deal with the West paves the way for global peace and security. It has established beyond doubt that negotiations will always win the day in resolving bilateral and global issues. Iran, the U.S., China, the U.K., Russia, France and Germany deserve credit for this. The decision of Iran and the U.S. to reach a compromise makes this world a better place to live in.

B. Prabha,

Varkala

What a good deal it is for Iran! India will also welcome it as it will ease the pressure on us in terms of paving the way for smooth energy ties.

President Obama’s supporters will celebrate the deal as his second foreign policy victory this year, after the threat of air strikes that forced Syria to begin the destruction of its chemical weapons.

Madan Menon Thottasseri,

Chennai

The agreement is a victory for Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and a win-win situation for both players. Russia’s growing clout within the Middle East along with a sensible understanding by the West of the volatility of the situation made it all possible. The rest of the world is thankful that all leaders negotiated this in a peaceful way. Intransigence and arrogance never work. It is a great lesson for the international community that patience and credible dialogue will ensure a more harmonious relationship between warring nations. Let this deal also be the first step towards ensuring larger peace in the troubled Middle East.

Tito Pulikkottil,

Thrissur