Former U.S. President Barack Obama has expressed skepticism about the prospects of a significantly improved nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran, stating that any future deal would likely resemble the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Speaking to ABC News, Obama said it is “doubtful” that new negotiations would produce a framework substantially different from the original accord.

Obama, who oversaw the signing of the JCPOA during his presidency, emphasized that the core principles of nuclear diplomacy with Iran remain unchanged. These include strict limits on uranium enrichment, robust international inspections, and verification mechanisms designed to prevent the development of nuclear weapons. He indicated that these elements are essential for any credible and enforceable agreement.

The 2015 JCPOA, agreed upon by Iran and world powers including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, China, and Russia, placed significant restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program. In return, Tehran received relief from economic sanctions. However, the deal faced a major setback when the United States withdrew in 2018, leading to renewed tensions and Iran gradually scaling back its compliance.

Obama’s remarks come at a time when discussions about reviving or replacing the JCPOA have resurfaced amid ongoing regional and global security concerns. Analysts note that while diplomatic efforts continue, political realities and mutual distrust between Washington and Tehran present major challenges to reaching a new agreement.

His comments highlight a broader consensus among experts that any sustainable nuclear deal will need to build upon the original JCPOA framework rather than replace it entirely. As negotiations evolve, the focus is expected to remain on balancing non-proliferation goals with economic and political considerations for both sides.