Iran-US talks; hot topic on diplomatic radar
The resumption of negotiations between Iran and the United States aimed at resolving the nuclear standoff have shot back into the spotlight in recent days. Last month, US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iran, expressing Washington’s willingness to open a dialogue. While the contents of the letter were not made public, remarks from officials on both sides suggest the message was blunt: either hash out a deal on outstanding issues—chief among them Iran’s nuclear program—or brace for a potential military strike. Iran responded to the letter. Iranian officials have stressed that they will never enter direct talks with the US under pressure. Meanwhile, senior military commanders have warned that any American aggression will be met with retaliation.
Several analysts have weighed in on the likelihood, framework, and potential content of future Iran-US talks. Their insights follow.
Chances of deal depends on
US flexibility
By Amir-Ali Abolfath
US affairs expert
Washington is keen on launching direct negotiations with Iran to hammer out a deal, believing that indirect talks are simply time-consuming. Trump has reportedly laid down a two-month window for addressing the Iran issue, and within this timeline, the US seems determined to push through talks—one way or another.
At this stage, Iran continues to insist on indirect negotiations, and it remains unclear whether it will eventually come around to sitting down face-to-face with the US. The situation is shrouded in uncertainty.
Should Trump’s executive memo form the backbone of the talks, negotiations will be difficult, leaving little room to wiggle around core demands.
There is still a chance for a deal—provided Trump’s memo does not set the bar. If the Americans scale back their expectations and back away from certain demands, especially in areas where Iran has drawn a red line, like its missile and defense programs, then some progress might be made.
But until talks—direct or indirect—get off the ground, it will remain unclear exactly what the US wants or how much room there is to negotiate or maneuver.
No go without Leader’s green light
By Jabbar Kouchakinejad
Iranian conservative MP
When it comes to talks with the US—which sits at the helm of the Western world—negotiations have gone on in the past and will likely crop up again.
Iran does not have any inherent objection to the idea of negotiations. However, the format, framework, and demands of such talks are ultimately laid out by Iran’s Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
As the Leader has declared: “No direct talks.” This is not a suggestion—it is a decree. Direct negotiations are off the table.
If direct talks are to be considered, a specific set of steps must be followed and any move must be signed off on by the Leader.
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