Iran drags out nuclear talks, testing Trump’s resolve – WSJ opinion

The Trump administration’s efforts to revive nuclear negotiations with Iran are faltering, as Tehran prolongs talks in hopes of concessions, according to a Wall Street Journal opinion piece published Tuesday.

The article, authored by foreign policy analysts Reuel Marc Gerecht and Ray Takeyh, argues that Iranian leaders no longer fear President Donald Trump’s unpredictability, citing what they describe as a lack of clear US negotiating positions and diminished appetite for military confrontation.

The authors warn that Iran’s expanding nuclear infrastructure and deepening ties with China reduce the effectiveness of US sanctions, once considered the cornerstone of Washington’s “maximum pressure” strategy.

“Tehran’s diplomatic maneuvering is incessant,” the article said, adding that US reluctance to support Israeli military options could embolden Iran’s leadership. “With America retrenching globally, friend and foe alike will want the security of a bomb.”