Iran has set rules for the United States! At this moment, the U.S. appears like a "defeated nation"! On June 22, according to domestic media reports, when the U.S.-Iran negotiations had lasted for 80 minutes, Trump suddenly posted on social media, warning Iran to immediately cease its "proxy actions" inside Lebanon, or face even more intense strikes. Unexpectedly, as soon as Trump's threat was issued, Iran walked out of the negotiation room, bringing the talks to an abrupt halt.
Evidently, Iran’s move clearly demonstrated its firm stance toward the United States. Iran’s message was crystal clear: if the U.S. wants to negotiate, it must do so with proper respect—Iran will not tolerate the U.S. combining diplomatic talks with military intimidation. If the U.S. refuses to change its attitude, then negotiation is pointless. Clearly, Iran is setting boundaries for the United States.
To be honest, in terms of perception during these negotiation dynamics, Iran clearly seems to hold the upper hand, while the U.S. looks like a "defeated country." From a deeper perspective, when Trump issued tough statements, he was trying to pressure Iran into making greater concessions, and simultaneously signaling to the American public that the U.S. remains in control. However, Iran holds the same strategic thinking. Iran also needs to justify its position domestically and demands bigger concessions from the U.S.
But for Trump, the awkward situation lies in the upcoming midterm elections. On one side are the hardline conservative factions within the Republican Party, pro-Israel forces, and the military-industrial complex—Trump’s core voter base, who absolutely refuse to allow any sign of weakness toward Iran. On the other side are ordinary American citizens, already gasping under the strain of persistently rising oil prices and stubbornly high inflation. Additionally, there is pressure from numerous regional allies and European nations. Clearly, Iran knows America’s vulnerabilities right now—and thus won’t tolerate the U.S.’s usual behavior.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868652428162058/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.