Iran’s Call for Engagement with President Trump
In a surprising turn of events following the re-election of President Donald J. Trump, voices within Iran are advocating for a renewed engagement with the American leader. This comes after a tumultuous history that includes Trump’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran and world powers, the imposition of stringent economic sanctions, and the controversial decision to order the assassination of Iran’s top general.
Amidst this backdrop, federal prosecutors recently revealed that Iran had apparently plotted to assassinate Mr. Trump prior to November’s election. Nevertheless, many former officials, commentators, and editorialists in Iran have begun to openly suggest that the Iranian government should seek dialogue with Trump.
For instance, Shargh, a prominent reformist daily newspaper, published a front-page editorial urging Iran’s newly elected moderate president, Masoud Pezeshkian, to “steer clear of previous errors and adopt a pragmatic, multidimensional approach.” This sentiment reflects a growing belief among some in Pezeshkian’s administration that Trump is inclined towards deal-making, especially where previous efforts have faltered. They argue that Trump’s significant influence within the Republican Party could lend any potential agreement greater longevity and stability.
In an open letter to President Pezeshkian, influential politician and former advisor Hamid Aboutalebi emphasized the importance of seizing this “historic opportunity for change in Iran-U.S. relations.” He encouraged Pezeshkian to extend congratulations to Trump on his electoral victory, thereby setting a more constructive and forward-looking tone for future diplomatic relations.
However, it is crucial to note that in Iran, pivotal decisions rest in the hands of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had previously prohibited negotiations with Trump during his initial term. Given the factional nature of Iranian politics, even if President Pezeshkian is inclined to pursue dialogue with Trump, he would still require the Supreme Leader’s approval to move forward.
