Sasan Karimi PhD.
International Politics program director, Nuclear Watch Network
Recently, E3 and Iran were engaged in three rounds of discussions. It seems that the nuclear issue is still occupying a paramount place in any new negotiations. Iran has repeatedly said that stands ready to engage in a fair and objective negotiation. This readiness emanates exclusively from the self-confidence in Tehran—a fact that the global community, especially European administrations, should recognize. Should political will be lacking in European capitals, there exists a risk that unconstructive and hostile narratives may emerge, falsely depicting Iran as a weakened state desperate for negotiations. Such misrepresentations not only distort Iran’s stance but also overlook its resilience.
Despite enduring decades of intense pressure and its accompanying costs, Iran has consistently demonstrated its refusal to capitulate under coercion. This resistance is not merely a strategic choice but a deep-seated principle, derived from the nation’s recent history. Iran’s resilience has led it to a pivotal juncture characterized by two competing narratives: The first, a misleading and detrimental narrative propagated by Israel, portrays Iran as economically and militarily weakened, with its regional alliances affected and political influence waning. This view suggests that Iran’s alleged vulnerabilities and supposed escalation of nuclear ambitions necessitate military intervention due to diminished deterrence.
Conversely, the second narrative acknowledges Iran’s achievements over four decades of unwavering resistance and self-reliance in security measures, culminating in a position of stability, self-sufficiency, and confidence. The regional resistance movements often linked with Iran are not merely extensions of its influence. Many of these groups, having predated the Islamic Republic, are driven by their own distinct objectives, shaped by decades of foreign occupation and systemic injustice. Their persistence highlights a broader regional ethos of resistance to inequality.
Analysts need to recognize that these movements are not conventional proxies but legitimate entities pursuing their own aims. While Iran has provided support, this assistance aligns with similar values and goals rather than implying direct control. Iran’s inherent capabilities, including its nuclear potential, vast natural resources, military strength, and, most importantly, its national unity, remain robust. Underestimating this unity fails to appreciate the resilience of a nation that has faced significant challenges over centuries.
Iran’s current stability and confidence are the results of a tumultuous history marked by territorial losses and periods of foreign dominance. Post-revolution, Iran has endured an eight-year war, prolonged economic sanctions, and relentless security challenges. Today, this resilience underpins its focus on development and the optimization of national interests across various domains. This strategic orientation aligns with President Pezeshkian’s administration, which emphasizes growth and opportunity.
Two irreversible developments since 2018 have made reaching an agreement more challenging: Firstly, Iran’s advancements in nuclear technology, which are now ingrained knowledge rather than mere material or machinery, cannot be limited or reversed. Secondly, the impact on the Iranian economy and its related sectors such as development and healthcare has been profound.
Despite the sanctions of the past five years, Iran’s economy has grown to a scale that defies easy disruption. Iran, with its full spectrum of capabilities, is distinct from nations like Libya, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The only viable approach to engaging with Iran is from a stance of fairness, respect, and equality. Any deviation leads to a deadlock.
Should the West fail to seize this moment, it risks repeating historical errors, influenced not just by misperceptions but also by undue Zionist lobbying. Western policies over the past four decades have inadvertently bolstered the positions of Russia and China in Iran. By neglecting opportunities for constructive engagement, the West has relinquished influence to these powers, thereby fostering dynamics that disproportionately benefit them.
Iran presents substantial potential for regional and global collaboration. Its highly educated workforce, advanced engineering capabilities, esteemed universities, and nuclear expertise make it a valuable partner. Iran’s cooperative initiatives with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) underscore its capability for meaningful partnerships. Furthermore, Iran represents an untapped market and investment opportunity for Western and non-Western actors in today’s post-polar world.
It is crucial to bridge the gap in mutual understanding between Iran and its counterparts. The Islamic Republic is prepared to leverage its hard-earned, self-reliant security for broader national and regional benefits. A critical step lies in the nuclear domain, where Iran’s adherence to the framework of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) provides a viable pathway for progress. Instead of unnecessary escalation, constructive measures can transform this sector into a scenario beneficial for all, steering clear of historically futile confrontations.
Iran’s administration envisions the future with a focus on opportunities—a moment ripe for all parties to engage constructively and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. Parties would be better to use the opportunity of Iran’s compliance with the deals and inspections.
