Victoria Azad
2025-02-05
Renewed Maximum Pressure on Iran;
In his second term, Donald Trump has placed a strong emphasis on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He has signed an executive order reinstating the “maximum pressure” policy, which includes tough sanctions and severe restrictions on Iran’s oil exports. The primary goal of this policy is to deprive Tehran of foreign funding and prevent it from advancing its nuclear program.
Coordination with Israel:
In a recent meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both leaders underscored the importance of preventing Iran from going nuclear. The discussion highlighted their shared commitment to making this issue a top priority. While they also addressed other matters, such as removing Hamas from Gaza, Iran’s nuclear ambitions took center stage.
Trump’s Stance on Military Action Against Iran:
Trump has recently hinted at the possibility of attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities. At a campaign rally in North Carolina, he criticized Joe Biden for opposing such actions, stating, “That’s what it takes.” His remarks suggest a willingness to use military force if necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. At the same time, Trump has expressed a willingness to negotiate with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, stating: “To Iran, who is listening carefully, I say, ‘I would like to make a great deal. A deal that allows you to get on with your life.’” This statement signals that while Trump remains committed to his pressure campaign, he is open to diplomacy under his terms.
Will Iran Negotiate with the U.S.?
In an interview with NBC, Masoud Pezeshkian indicated that Iran is open to “principled” negotiations with the United States but stressed that the real issue is Washington’s failure to uphold past commitments. “Our problem is not dialogue; the problem is the commitments these talks require, and both sides must honor them,” he stated.
This mutual distrust, rooted in a history of non-compliance, remains the biggest obstacle to U.S.-Iran negotiations. Under these circumstances, continued confrontation appears inevitable.
Is Trump’s Goal to Overthrow the Iranian Regime?
Despite the “maximum pressure” strategy, evidence suggests that Trump’s policy is not aimed at directly overthrowing the regime but rather at altering the conditions that sustain it. Trump has repeatedly stated his willingness to negotiate—provided that the regime concedes to his demands.
However, even if the Iranian government were to accept Trump’s terms, it would still face serious internal and regional challenges. The regime has lost credibility among its own people and remains widely unpopular across the Middle East.
Can the Islamic Republic Be Held Accountable?
A government that has evaded accountability for forty-five years is unlikely to change under external pressure, no matter how severe. The Iranian regime has continuously relied on temporary survival tactics—such as bypassing sanctions, suppressing domestic dissent, and leveraging diplomatic maneuvers—to maintain its grip on power. However, in the long run, these methods appear increasingly unsustainable.
Should Trump Align with the Iranian People?
Absolutely. If Trump and his administration want a lasting and strategic position in the Middle East, they should not focus solely on America’s national interests but also
on supporting the aspirations of the region’s people. A more direct and strategic backing of the Iranian opposition—rather than just imposing sanctions—could make the regime more vulnerable to public discontent.
This time, more effective measures should be implemented to weaken and ultimately dismantle the Islamic Republic. If military action becomes necessary, Trump is expected to stand firmly with Israel.
Is a U.S.-Iran Compromise on the Horizon?
There is no indication of an impending compromise between foreign powers and the Islamic Republic. On the contrary, tensions are escalating. Trump and Netanyahu recognize that the Iranian people overwhelmingly reject the regime, and sooner or later, power dynamics within Iran will shift—whether through internal pressures or external geopolitical changes.
