Over 70 nuclear nonproliferation experts announce support for Iran agreement

More than 70 leading nuclear nonproliferation experts issued a statement here on Tuesday, showing their support for the full implementation of the Iran nuclear agreement which aims to guarantee the peaceful nature of Tehran's nuclear program.

Signers of the statement include former senior U.S. nonproliferation officials, former director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency Hans Blix, former nuclear negotiators and leading specialists from all around the world.

The statement outlined that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) "is a strong, long-term, and verifiable agreement that will be a net-plus for international nuclear nonproliferation efforts."

In exchange for international sanctions relief, the JCPOA will establish restrictions on Iran's sensitive nuclear fuel cycle activities to prevent Iran from developing or acquiring a nuclear weapon for at least 15 years.

The agreement between Iran and the P5+1 nations (China, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and the United States) has been approved by the UN Security Council and will be voted on by the U.S. Congress by Sept. 17.

Experts attest that the JCPOA "advances the security interests" of all negotiating parties and the international community, urging "leaders of the P5+1 states, the European Union and Iran to take the steps necessary to ensure timely implementation and rigorous compliance."

"This statement of more than 70 of the world's leading nonproliferation specialists underscores ... the majority of arms control and non-proliferation experts support the P5+1 and Iran nuclear deal," said organizer Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association. Endi