Jamsheed Choksy, Distinguished Professor at Indiana University and a professor of Iranian studies in its School of International and Global Studies, regards the just-announced Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as highly important for the world's security and for the reintegration of Iran back into the community of nations.

"It provides for Iran's economic revitalization while ensuring that nation's nuclear and conventional weapons developments are halted for many years," Choksy said. "This agreement can pave the way for better ties between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, perhaps even leading eventually to restoration of diplomatic relations that fell apart in 1979.

"Today's re-opening of Iran to the world also ensures that Iranians will have enhanced access to western education, technology, ideas, and values which should revitalize personal and civic freedoms in that country," Choksy said.

Choksy can be reached for further comment at 317-989-4178 and [email protected].

Choksy is an authority of Iran, the Indian subcontinent, Zoroastrianism and Islam. His success in studying the Near East and South Asia stems from his knowledge of primary language skills over more than 20 dialects.

His research examines the development and interrelationship of communities, beliefs, politics, economics and security. The author of the groundbreaking book “Evil, Good and Gender: Facets of the Feminine in Zoroastrian Religious History,” he is a sought-after media commentator on topics and issues facing the region.