During Trump’s first term, the United States pursued a policy widely known as “maximum pressure” on Iran, targeting everything from its missile program and regional influence to its nuclear activities. Senior figures like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo repeatedly emphasized their goal of forging a comprehensive and restrictive deal against Tehran.
Today, however, Washington’s posture has noticeably shifted. The same administration that once pushed relentlessly for pressure is now leaning toward diplomacy. This pivot reflects a combination of domestic and international pressures that have compelled the U.S. to reevaluate its Iran policy — not as a voluntary strategic choice, but as a tactical necessity.
The issue is clear: the maximum pressure policy, effectively demanding Iran’s surrender, was never acceptable to Tehran. The Islamic Republic made it known — both to regional actors and global powers — that any war in the region would have widespread consequences, impacting not just Iran but American bases, global energy routes, and the entire regional stability. Faced with this reality, the U.S. was pushed to choose between prolonged instability or a return to negotiations.
Another factor is Trump’s failure in other foreign policy areas, notably the Ukraine conflict. His bold claim to resolve the crisis within 24 hours has yet to materialize, pushing him to seek success elsewhere — potentially in the Iran nuclear file.
Additionally, internal assessments by U.S. military and intelligence agencies, including the Pentagon and CENTCOM, have concluded that even a direct strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities would be insufficient to halt its program. These findings, along with Iran’s progress in uranium enrichment and missile development, have collectively nudged Washington toward the negotiation table.
Thus, caution is warranted against the West’s deliberate misrepresentation of the nuclear talks. If Iran truly lacked strength, Trump — given his foreign policy track record — would have acted militarily without delay. But it is Iran’s strategic capabilities that have changed the game.
According to available reports, both formal and informal U.S. requests for negotiations originated during Trump’s term. Iran only engaged after observing signs of a U.S. retreat from its hardline stance. Now, the credibility of America’s diplomatic overtures will be tested in practice.
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