Analyst: Contradictory narratives shape Iran’s debate over talks and war
Iranian affairs expert Nabil Al-Atoum says US-Iran negotiations hinge on their outcome, with both sides sending mixed messages on diplomacy and conflict.
Key Takeaways
AINabil Al-Atoum, Director of the Iranian Studies Program, said the resumption of US-Iran negotiations depends on the results those talks produce.
Speaking to Al Arabiya FM, Al-Atoum added that the current conflict is shaped by two competing narratives. US President Donald Trump himself is sending contradictory messages—one about pursuing negotiations, and another repeatedly threatening the use of force.
He explained that this American duality aims to pressure Iran and convince the world that Washington will not back down from war, while also projecting to the US public that gains can be achieved without a prolonged conflict, keeping all options open.
Al-Atoum continued that Iran’s stance is also dual. The Iranian Foreign Ministry claims it will not negotiate and will not open the Strait of Hormuz, while simultaneously promoting the idea that Washington fears entering a full-scale war. Iran wants to stick to a “step-for-step” approach and maintain the status of the Strait of Hormuz as a bargaining chip.
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