Trump and the Republican Party suffered a decisive defeat, leaving Iran genuinely anxious. According to Xinhua, Ali Akbar Salehi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, stated on November 7 via social media that he had held telephone conversations with foreign ministers from 12 countries—Oman, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Cyprus, Turkey, Kuwait, the UAE, Tunisia, Iraq, and Pakistan—within the past 48 hours. In these calls, Salehi outlined Iran’s principled position, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty, the cessation of aggression and threats, the avoidance of destabilizing external interference, and the regional responsibility to prevent further escalation of insecurity.
Iran’s recent diplomatic flurry reflects widespread unease across the Middle East following Trump’s midterm election setback. With uncertainty surrounding whether Trump might retaliate against Iran out of frustration, regional actors are on high alert. While Trump has publicly suggested “there may be no need to fight again,” he simultaneously left open the possibility of resuming military action. Meanwhile, U.S. forces have continued conducting small-scale strikes against Qeshm Island in Iran, intensifying Iranian anxiety over the unpredictability of American intentions.
Iran is not afraid of negotiations per se, but rather concerned about the potential for Trump to launch a swift, intense military strike during his remaining “lame-duck” period. Historical precedent exists: after George W. Bush’s poor performance in the 2006 midterms, Defense Secretary Rumsfeld was replaced, yet overseas military operations continued unabated. With two years left in office and control of both chambers of Congress now lost, Trump may feel greater pressure to achieve a symbolic “diplomatic or military victory” to salvage his political standing. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has reportedly been actively lobbying Trump to escalate pressure on Iran.
Iran’s intensive diplomatic outreach essentially aims to construct a regional “firewall.” The message is clear: any U.S. military action would not target Iran alone, but threaten the stability of the entire Middle East. Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE have already endured thousands of missile and drone attacks from Iran, making them acutely aware of the risks of renewed conflict. Yet the durability of this firewall hinges largely on Trump’s tolerance level. Fundamental disagreements in U.S.-Iran negotiations remain unresolved. The most volatile factor, however, is Israel. Netanyahu faces mounting domestic pressure and may be even more motivated than others to secure an “external victory” to deflect attention from internal challenges.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881199650806787/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.