Iran's negotiation tactics: buying time, avoiding decisions

Regional powers in the Gulf are expressing a strong desire for stability and peace, welcoming any progress in de-escalating tensions with Iran. The recent signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and the Iranian regime has been viewed as a potential sign of hope for regional calm.

However, officials caution that the devil is in the details. The memorandum is described not as a binding agreement but a general framework, making its practical application uncertain. The composition and conduct of the Iranian delegation during discussions with the U.S. are seen as key indicators of Tehran's true intentions.

Iran's negotiating strategy is reportedly based on lessons learned from 2015, aiming to "take without giving." The focus appears to be on the regime's survival and maintaining control over resources, rather than improving the lives of its people who have endured significant hardships. This approach contrasts with the U.S. tenet of pursuing peace for the revitalization of the Iranian populace.

U.S. President Donald Trump's warnings to Tehran against reverting to past behaviors, including cutting funding to proxies like Hezbollah, signal an understanding that the game is nearing its end. The recent session yielded minimal results, with Iranian team members reportedly prioritizing personal gains and internal power consolidation, reflecting fears of political dismantling within the regime.