Context:
US President Donald Trump has agreed to immediately start working on a new nuclear deal with Iran to allow the country to “peacefully grow and prosper.” He termed reports that US and Israel plan to attack Iran as “greatly exaggerated”.
Trump’s Directive and Economic Pressure
- Trump signed a directive to enforce tougher sanctions on Iran, reinstating a policy from his first term that included the US withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal.
- This step follows other moves under way to create economic pressure on Iran, accused by the US, and many international observers, of using its civilian nuclear program as cover for developing potentially nuclear weapons the charge that Teheran absolutely denies.
Iran’s Readiness for Diplomacy
- Iran indicated that it was ready and willing to present the US once again with its differences.
- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that Iran’s opposition to nuclear weapons could help address US concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
- Tehran expressed concern about Israel’s involvement in the region, with officials suggesting the US should restrain Israel if it seeks a deal with Iran.
Challenges for Iran’s Clerical Leadership
- Analysts point out that Iran’s regional influence has been significantly weakened due to the Hamas Israel conflict in Gaza and economic dissatisfaction among its population.
- Many believe that Iran may have little choice but to pursue a deal with Trump given these challenges.
