Iranian negotiating stance divided, says researcher

Iranian affairs researcher Aref Nasr said that the Iranian mindset involved in negotiations with the United States has become divided into two camps.

Speaking in an interview with Al Arabiya FM, Nasr explained that Iranian negotiators are now split: one faction, including Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, seeks a settlement, while the other favors a more militarized approach to the talks.

Nasr added that if Iran continues to take a hardline stance in negotiations, it could lead to domestic protests—something the Iranian government fears, especially as its National Security Council is now dominated by hardliners.

Iran continues to insist on its position regarding control over the Strait of Hormuz and imposing transit fees, a demand rejected by the United States. Mediators are seeking a compromise that would allow direct negotiations between the US and Iran to begin.

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