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Don’t count on a reset in US-Iran relations, writes Dalia Dassa Kaye

In the complex landscape of Iranian politics, the ongoing tension with the United States remains a pivotal issue, often referred to as a struggle against the “Great Satan.” Despite the economic hardships faced by Iran, exacerbated by sanctions and international isolation, some leaders within the Iranian regime are still resistant to pursuing a diplomatic deal with the U.S. This reluctance is rooted in a deep-seated ideological opposition to American influence in the Middle East and a desire to maintain the revolutionary principles established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. While the Iranian economy has been battered by a combination of U.S. sanctions and internal mismanagement, the hardline factions within the government continue to prioritize ideological purity over pragmatic engagement.

The current political climate in Iran is marked by a significant divide between reformists, who advocate for engagement with the West, and hardliners, who view any negotiation with the U.S. as a betrayal of the revolution. For instance, while President Ebrahim Raisi has engaged in talks regarding the nuclear deal, hardline leaders and influential clerics have publicly denounced any concessions to the U.S., arguing that it would undermine Iran’s sovereignty and embolden American aggression. This internal conflict is further complicated by the regional dynamics, where Iran’s support for groups like Hezbollah and its involvement in conflicts across the Middle East have drawn the ire of the U.S. and its allies.

The implications of this ideological battle are profound, as Iran’s leadership grapples with the realities of a struggling economy and a populace increasingly frustrated by the lack of opportunities. The hardliners’ stance against the U.S. is not just a political choice; it is also a strategic one, aimed at consolidating power and maintaining control over a populace that is growing weary of economic hardship. As negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program continue to stall, the question remains: will the regime ever find common ground with the West, or will the ideological barriers prove insurmountable in a world that is increasingly interconnected? The answer could shape the future of Iran’s foreign relations and its domestic stability in the years to come.