Iran: U.S. Concerns and Policy Responses

Kenneth Katzman | Congressional Research Service | 2009-07-22

This July 2009 report by the Congressional Research Service examines the Obama administration's new strategies for achieving the goal set forth by the previous administration of containing Iran’s strategic capabilities and regional influence. The report focuses on the Obama administration's effort to expand direct diplomatic engagement with Iran through such actions as messages to the Iranian people and contact with Iranian diplomats at multilateral meetings.

Noting uncertainties created by Iran’s turbulent June 2009 election, the report’s summary states: “If Iran refuses to return to the nuclear bargaining table, the Administration might focus, at an earlier than expected stage, on sanctioning and pressuring Iran.”