Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews
3/14/25 Muhammad Sahimi on how Trump’s Return and Israel’s War are Affecting Iran
Mar 23, 2025
Muhammad Sahimi, a USC professor and expert on Iran's political landscape, dives into the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations and Trump's potential return. They dissect the impact of 'maximum pressure' policies, raising concerns about triggering a nuclear crisis. Sahimi also addresses how economic improvements could spark political change and examines the intricate factional dynamics within Iran. The conversation sheds light on Israel's military strategies toward Iran, critiquing the notion that regime change can be achieved through force.
58:54
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Quick takeaways
- The re-imposition of stringent U.S. sanctions hampers potential negotiations with Iran despite openness from its new moderate leadership.
- Iran's military capabilities, particularly its missile and drone programs, are shaped by regional threats, complicating diplomatic resolutions with external powers.
Deep dives
Current Status of U.S.-Iran Relations
The recent election of a moderate president in Iran has opened the door for potential negotiations with the United States over the nuclear program and other issues. The newly elected president and his foreign minister, key figures in the prior nuclear agreement known as the JCPOA, have expressed a willingness to engage in discussions with the U.S., aiming to resolve tensions. However, the re-imposition of stringent sanctions by the current U.S. administration has created a hostile environment, dampening hopes for fruitful negotiations. Iran's leadership, particularly the Ayatollah, has also indicated that under pressure from sanctions and military threats, Iran is unwilling to negotiate.
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