Ellen Laipson on Iran & the Bomb at Aspen

Stimson President and CEO Ellen Laipson spoke at the 2015 Aspen Security Forum in a panel discussion on “Iran & the Bomb” with Distinguished Practitioner-in-Residence at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies John McLaughlin, Senior Fellow for the Jackson Institute for International Affairs at Yale University Matthew Spence, and moderated by Senior Foreign Affairs Correspondent for POLITICO Michael Crowley. Opening the discussion, Laipson said that the comprehensive Iranian nuclear deal is a “remarkable diplomatic achievement.”

Laipson noted that the success of the agreement will be dependent upon robust implementation and Iranian compliance. She also addressed the question: “Does it change the dynamics for regional security?”

While the administration and the negotiation partners kept the focus on Iran’s nuclear activities, over time, the agreement could contribute to more open engagement with Iran on other issues, but Laipson made clear that the agreement was not contingent on that wider agenda. Laipson noted the period of lifting sanctions is “going to get a little complicated,” and that the agreement should be seen as a “net positive for the region.”

Watch the full discussion below or here

Subscription Options

* indicates required

Research Areas

Pivotal Places

Publications & Project Lists

38 North: News and Analysis on North Korea