ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the effects of both the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and the oil price decline have been relatively modest for Iran. It begins with a brief analysis of the status quo in Iranian energy. The chapter discusses the impact of the nuclear deal upon Iranian energy and examines how international energy developments are affecting Iran's political economy. It also discusses the outlook for Iranian energy. While the government-controlled Ministry of Petroleum and its National Iranian Oil Company continue to remain in charge of Iran's energy sector, there is a heavy degree of interest and involvement by the Guards. Beyond energy, a more radical Iran policy by the Trump administration could prevent Iran from translating the nuclear deal into economic progress. Such an outcome could in turn strengthen hardliners in Tehran and possibly bring Hassan Rohani's moderation project to an end.
