What were the main components of the 2015 JCPOA?

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The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) involved significant sanctions relief for Iran in exchange for strict limitations on its nuclear activities, overseen by international inspections.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) established a framework where Iran would accept limitations on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of international sanctions. This agreement, initially signed by Iran, the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain, and Germany, aimed to significantly extend the time Iran would require to produce fissile material for a nuclear weapon. The deal also included provisions for extensive monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Sanctions Relief Measures

Under the JCPOA, sanctions that had previously targeted Iran's vital economic sectors were lifted. This included restrictions on its oil, gas, petrochemical, banking, shipping, and auto industries, as well as its trade in gold and minerals. The United States, the European Union, and the United Nations removed the Central Bank of Iran, along with numerous other entities and individuals, from their respective sanctions lists. Additionally, the US permitted the sale of commercial aircraft to Iran and allowed imports of Iranian carpets and food products.
Uranium Enrichment Restrictions

A core component of the agreement focused on Iran's uranium enrichment activities. Iran committed to capping its uranium enrichment purity at 3.67% for a period of 15 years, a level substantially lower than the approximately 90% purity required for a nuclear weapon. Prior to the deal, Iran had produced uranium enriched to 20%. Furthermore, Iran agreed to limit its stockpile of enriched uranium to 300 kilograms and reduce the number of operational centrifuges from an estimated 19,000 to 6,100.
Stockpile Reduction and Facility Conversion

The JCPOA mandated that any excess uranium material beyond the agreed-upon cap be either downblended to the level of natural uranium or shipped out of the country. According to the United States, this process resulted in a 98% reduction of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. The underground Fordow enrichment facility was also designated for conversion into a research center as part of these restrictions.
Heavy Water Reactor Redesign and Monitoring Powers

In addition to uranium enrichment, the agreement addressed concerns regarding plutonium production. Iran agreed to redesign its heavy-water reactor located in Arak to ensure it could not be used to produce weapons-grade plutonium. To verify compliance with these and other provisions, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was granted wide-ranging inspection powers, enabling comprehensive monitoring of Iran's nuclear program.

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What were the main components of the 2015 JCPOA?

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