Gordon Sondland: West must not let Iran turn Trump's pause into nuclear dodge

When the United States suddenly halted its planned military operation against Iran, it became clear that talks were underway. The regime was given two to three days to reach an arrangement that presumably rules out nuclear weapons.

What does that mean in practice? Iranian scientists already know how to build a bomb. The country has enough enriched uranium for 10 bombs in 11 days, and it takes only weeks to raise enrichment from 60 percent to weapons-grade 90 percent. No one is discussing the plutonium stockpile.

Iran's ballistic missiles have struck targets across the Middle East and now reach Europe. The regime expelled inspectors, concealed its work, and broke every agreement it signed. Nothing in the current pause shows it has changed.

The Iranian leadership is a religious and ideological movement that seeks to conquer or destroy those who reject its rules. It has said so openly in its writings and sermons. Many Americans have died over the past 47 years because of that drive.

Enforcement remains the central problem. Any deal will face the same pattern of cheating, lying, and concealment that past agreements encountered. U.S. intelligence and satellites cannot detect every violation. If breaches are found, the question is what follows.

Past U.S. responses give little reason for confidence. Even Republican administrations often avoided strong action, and future Democratic leaders have shown even less appetite for confrontation. Political pressure at home could also limit follow-through, especially if gasoline prices rise.

Iran's support for Hezbollah and Hamas is another open issue. The regime is unlikely to end that backing, and there is no clear plan to stop it if it continues. North Korea and European governments may also undermine any restrictions.

Democrats are already preparing attacks that frame the pause as a mistake or a repeat of past policy failures. The political cost could grow if the regime survives and keeps its capabilities.

Sondland said he has no inside information about the talks. He noted that military action could resume after the current pause, but said the issues raised here must be addressed regardless of the outcome.