Reading Room Document

Review of Domestic and International Legal Implications of Implementation of the Agreement with Iran

The document discusses the legal implications of the agreement between the United States and Iran, particularly in the context of non-implementation. It addresses the potential legal issues that may arise, such as the status of the escrow account, the use of frozen assets to satisfy claims, and the rights of the hostages and their families to sue Iran for damages. The document also considers the possibility of seeking confirmation from the International Court of Justice and the potential consequences of repudiating the agreement. It concludes that the President has the authority to either repudiate or maintain the agreement, and that any decision made by the President regarding duress is not subject to review by the courts.

January 29, 1981