President Donald Trump has decided to decertify the Iran nuclear deal signed by his predecessor Barack Obama. Trump says that Tehran has not fulfilled its commitment and wants US Congress to slap more restrictions on Iran. He is not in agreement with European signatories to the deal who think Iran has significantly reduced its nuclear stockpile. Trump is on a unilateral pitch. He seems motivated by a policy directive to wipe out his predecessor’s legacy even in foreign policy. And he prefers to isolate the US from its western allies and does not care if he loses credibility. It will be difficult for him now to advocate non-proliferation of peace on the global scene. Tensions have already mounted between the US and North Korea over Pyongyang’s nuclear designs. Trump suggests that he is willing to talk to Kim Jong-Un but North Korea is no longer willing to trust Washington. Sinking the Iran deal will make it more sceptical about Trump’s statement.
Trump’s hostile attitude may drive Iran to Islamic Fundamentalism of the Ayatollah brand. Moderate President Hassan Rouhani who has been re-elected is for reform and invites Western investment. By scrapping the nuclear deal, Trump will strengthen the hands of hardliners in Iran. Besides, Trump’s crusade against the ISIS and other Islamic terror groups will take a hit. Saudi Arabia is not a great ally. Finally Trump has already taken firm steps with Pakistan which Islamabad has reciprocated to stabilise Kabul against the Taliban. Cancelling the nuclear deal with Iran will interfere with US initiatives.