Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, expressed optimism about the upcoming third round of talks with the United States, considering it a potential opportunity to end the current tensions between the two countries. In remarks broadcast on state television, Pezeshkian said, "We see a promising horizon for the negotiations," emphasizing that Tehran will continue this path "under the guidance of the Supreme Leader so that we can overcome the state of neither war nor peace" that has characterized relations for years.
Historical background: From the nuclear agreement to the escalation
These optimistic statements come amid years of escalating tensions following the United States’ unilateral withdrawal from the landmark nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018. This agreement, reached in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 group (the United States, Britain, France, Russia, China, and Germany), aimed to strictly restrict Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international economic sanctions. However, the previous US administration’s decision to withdraw and reimpose crippling sanctions prompted Tehran to gradually roll back its nuclear commitments, leading to increased uranium enrichment to levels that alarmed world powers and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The importance of conversations and their potential impact
This new round of talks is of paramount importance on all levels. Domestically, in Iran, reviving the nuclear agreement and lifting sanctions represents a lifeline for the struggling economy, which is suffering from high inflation and a plummeting currency. A diplomatic success on this front could provide a significant boost to President Pezeshkian's administration, which built part of its election campaign on promises to improve living conditions and open up to the world.
Regionally, an understanding between Tehran and Washington could reduce tensions in the Middle East, a region beset by proxy conflicts and escalating security challenges. Easing pressure on Iran would positively impact the stability of countries like Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, and pave the way for broader regional dialogue. Internationally, successful negotiations would bolster nuclear non-proliferation efforts and represent a victory for multilateral diplomacy. Furthermore, they could influence global energy markets by allowing Iranian oil to fully return to the market, potentially contributing to price stability.
