2023-06-30 02:12:28
US special envoy to Iran Robert Malley has been suspended. The US State Department announced on Thursday and added that Malley would be replaced by Abram Paley. The ministry did not provide any further details. According to US media reports, Malley’s handling of sensitive documents is under review. CNN, citing unnamed sources, reported that it was regarding his handling of classified documents.
Malley himself told several media outlets that his security clearance was being reviewed and that he hoped it would work out in his favour.
The move comes amid speculation regarding indirect talks between Iran and the US through Oman. The sultanate traditionally acts as an intermediary between the two countries, which do not have diplomatic relations.
Malley was appointed special envoy by US President Joe Biden in 2021. He is considered one of the architects of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, from which the United States had withdrawn under ex-President Donald Trump. Malley had been sharply criticized by opponents of the agreement, who accused him of being too benevolent towards Tehran.
Rob Malley is a childhood friend of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and has chaired the independent conflict prevention organization, the International Crisis Group (ICG).
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