Now, however, as diplomats appear to be making a concerted effort to overcome the political and bureaucratic constraints that have held them back in the past, Congress would do well to do the same. A close look at the lessons of history, and a willingness to adopt the political courage and diplomatic creativity that has hindered progress in the past, could permit this momentum to continue. In this way, the initial signs of progress that appeared in Geneva could finally be translated into the meaningful settlement that has evaded the United States and Iran for a decade.

Usha Sahay is the Director of Digital Outreach at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation. Previously, she served as the organization’s Herbert Scoville, Jr. Peace Fellow. You can follow her on Twitter at:@ushasahay.