In a recent episode of the “Iran: the Untold Story” podcast, Ambassador Robert Joseph, a senior scholar at the National Institute for Public Policy and former Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, delivered a scathing critique of U.S. policies towards Iran since 1979. Drawing from his extensive experience, Amb. Joseph argued that successive American administrations have largely adopted a flawed approach of appeasement towards the Iranian regime.
According to Amb. Joseph, the predominant strategy has been to seek moderation within the Iranian regime through concessions and diplomatic engagement. He contends that this approach is inherently flawed because the regime, in his view, cannot reform without risking its own demise. “Most American administrations have pursued policies of appeasement,” Amb. Joseph said, emphasizing that this strategy has consistently failed to support the democratic opposition in Iran. He believes that genuine support for the opposition is crucial for the establishment of a democratic republic in Iran, one that respects the rights of its people and adheres to international norms.
Amb. Joseph also discussed the regime’s manipulation of international institutions like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He emphasized that Tehran has utilized these institutions to buy time and advance its nuclear capabilities. “Tehran has played the IAEA… to achieve what it wanted to achieve,” he stated, pointing out that the regime has managed to enrich fissile material to 60%, which is alarmingly close to weapons-grade material. He criticized the regime for stonewalling the IAEA’s efforts to monitor and verify Iran’s nuclear activities for over a decade.
Expressing support for the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and its main constituent group, the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK/PMOI), Amb. Joseph highlighted the leadership of NCRI President-elect Mrs. Maryam Rajavi and her Ten-Point Plan for a democratic, secular, and non-nuclear Iran. He praised the plan as “a clear example of moral leadership” and noted its widespread endorsement by politicians around the world. Amb. Joseph believes that the NCRI and MEK pose the greatest threat to the Iranian regime, which is why they have been labeled as public enemy number one by Tehran. Despite the regime’s efforts to discredit these opposition groups, Amb. Joseph is confident that “the truth will prevail” and that the organized opposition is essential for a smooth transition to a democratic republic in Iran.
In his concluding remarks, Amb. Joseph reflected on the death of the regime’s president Ebrahim Raisi and its implications for the regime. He suggested that this event highlights the regime’s vulnerability and could potentially spur new uprisings. “The people are celebrating in Iran and outside of Iran,” he noted, indicating widespread discontent and the potential for significant political change.
Ambassador Amb. Joseph’s insights provide a stark perspective on U.S. foreign policy and the internal dynamics of Iran, emphasizing the need for a strategic shift toward supporting democratic movements within the country.
