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Iran: A Grand Bargain
April 18, 2007––Dr. Chris Preble, Director of Foreign Policy Studies at the Cato Institute (a Washington D.C.-based libertarian think tank), joined Chicago Society, Americans for Informed Democracy, and the University of Chicago campus community for a lively discussion on America’s best policy options apropos Iran.
 In his half-hour speech, Preble introduced the current tension between Washington and Tehran by giving a brief history of America’s perception of the Iranian nuclear threat, and proceeded to go through the policy options Washington has, including economic sanctions and preventive strikes. He detailed the shortcomings of all of them, and instead advocated a diplomatic “grand bargain.” In exchange for the halting of Iran’s nuclear program, the United States would promise not to attack Iran, institute full diplomatic recognition, and fully normalize economic relations. He conceded that whether this deal would be accepted or not was questionable, but that there would be no harm in trying. The key to his advocacy of a “grand bargain” is the assumption that Iran is rational – that is, that “the mullahs aren’t crazy.” What the U.S. will do remains to be seen, but as a result of Dr. Preble’s visit, we have a better understanding of the ramifications of any decision that Washington decides to make in response to Tehran.
In a half-hour Q&A session following his speech, Dr. Preble addressed the historical background of American-Iranian relations and the impact of policy decisions on the greater Middle East, especially Israel. In addition, a reception after the event allowed attendees plenty of time to discuss the issues further with Dr. Preble.
- Vivian Tien, Event Chair
Please click here for pictures from the event.
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