IRAN: Resumed Iran Diplomacy Will Provide No Easy Path

Iran is likely to restrict UN inspectors’ access to nuclear sites on 23 February, following the expiration of a deadline the Iranian parliament imposed on European countries to provide sanctions relief. Iran’s hostile actions, including the attack last on a US base in Iraqi Kurdistan by forces tied to Iran, are signs that Iran is preparing to enter negotiations with the United States. Teheran’s actions in the coming months are likely to mix antagonistic actions with diplomacy, introducing greater volatility into Gulf security, and by extension into oil markets. The Bid