Since the US exit from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, Iran has ramped up its nuclear program. This recklessness has further inflamed an already deeply rooted animosity toward Israel. The Iranian government maintains that its nuclear enrichment activities are a sovereign right. They argue that the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) permits this when done for peaceful, civilian purposes.
Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi has publicly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that he is “desperate to dictate what the US can and cannot do”. This comment underscores the increasing tension between Tehran and Jerusalem even as Iran and world powers—including the US—continue to negotiate a return to the 2015 nuclear deal.
Iran’s support for regional groups that are currently battling with Israel. Increasing this concern is Iraq’s burgeoning instability and what that would mean for the region and U.S. interests there. The Iranian leadership has made it very clear that if Israel attacks its nuclear installations, it will respond powerfully. Iran has flatly ruled out suspending uranium enrichment temporarily. They are concerned that this wouldn’t be a realistic approach to get a temporary agreement with the US.
The US administration has been clear that it will not budge on its key demands related to Iran’s nuclear program. The Trump administration seeks the complete elimination of Iran’s nuclear program. It also requires the complete cessation of all uranium enrichment operations. That’s exactly why US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem made the trip to Israel – to send a message. She communicated key messages all the way from then-President Donald Trump.
Noem emphasized the importance of unity between the US and Israel, stating, “President Trump specifically sent me here to have a conversation with the prime minister about how those negotiations are going and how important it is that we stay united and let this process play out.”
In support of a broader, strategic diplomatic effort, US officials have entered into several rounds of discussion with their Iranian allies. The last round of discussions took place in Rome, Italy, and was the fifth round of negotiations. These discussions were key in addressing the most contentious nuclear concern. Trump expressed optimism about the talks, stating, “We’ve had some very, very good talks with Iran.”
Iran’s Foreign Ministry calls for accountability. They insist that the US should be held fully responsible should Israel decide to attack Iranian nuclear installations. This claim is further demonstration of Iran’s resolve to protect its sovereignty and right to develop nuclear weapons in the face of mounting international pressure.
In addition to these diplomatic conversations, the US has rolled out several sanctions aimed directly at tanking Iran’s economy. These steps are designed to stop its nuclear activities and force it to live up to the dictates of the international community regarding its nuclear activities.
The administration came into office very clearly stating that they were not going to accept a nuclear armed Iran. According to Noem, “The message to the American people is: We have a president that wants peace, but a president that will not tolerate nuclear Iran capability in the future.”
In spite of their ongoing tensions, it seems like both countries are playing a surreal game of diplomacy and military threat chicken. With negotiations ongoing, it’s clear that the stakes are high for all sides.
