### Dialogue between Iran and the United States: a new step towards the definition of the future nuclear
On October 28, 2023, Iran and the United States began in Rome a new round of talks on the Iranian nuclear program, a situation which deserves to be examined in the light of complex relations between these two nations since the Islamic revolution of 1979. The importance of these discussions cannot be underestimated, both geopolitical and overall regional security.
#### A loaded historical context
Since the 1979 Revolution, which has seen the fall of the Shah of Iran and the establishment of the Islamic Republic, relations between Tehran and Washington have been marked by persistent tensions, economic sanctions and mutual accusations. The Vienna agreement in 2015, which had tried to regulate the Iranian nuclear program in exchange for a partial lifting of the sanctions, had aroused a certain hope. However, the unilateral removal of the United States from this agreement in 2018, followed by a tightening of sanctions, rekindled tensions.
The first exchanges between the two nations, qualified as “constructive”, testify to a desire to initiate a dialogue where other approaches have failed. This development arouses several essential questions: what are the motivations behind this resumption of discussions? What implications does this have regional stability and nuclear non-proliferation?
#### The motivations of the actors
For Iran, the continuation of negotiations is undoubtedly a way of seeking relief in the face of economic pressures caused by sanctions. In addition, maintaining its nuclear program is perceived by the Iranian government as a question of sovereignty and national security. For the United States, although diplomacy is a complex exercise, dialogue could represent an opportunity to revive the international strategy on non-proliferation and to reduce the risk of military stopover in the region.
It is important to consider that tensions in the Middle East are not only limited to the Iranian question. Relations between Iran and other regional actors, in particular Saudi Arabia and Israel, also influence the framework of discussions. So how will the concerns of these neighboring countries be taken into consideration within the framework of these negotiations?
#### A nuanced approach to a solution
It is often easy to give in to the temptation to simplify international conflicts by presenting them as clashes between “good” and “evil”. However, this vision can lead to inappropriate solutions and extensions of hostilities. A peaceful and constructive dialogue, even if it seems difficult, could open the way for significant advances. Negotiators must therefore address these talks with a nuanced understanding of the challenges at stake.
Participants must be aware that each concession could have repercussions, not only on bilateral relations, but also on regional dynamics. It is therefore crucial to integrate robust monitoring and verification mechanisms to guarantee transparency and confidence, essential factors for a sustainable partnership.
#### Towards a more serene future?
The resumption of talks in Rome offers a glimmer of hope, but it requires a serious commitment to all the parties concerned. The establishment of a trust environment could not only facilitate fruitful discussions, but also lay the foundations for a more stable relationship in the region. Nevertheless, it is essential that these negotiations are not perceived only as an end in itself, but rather as a first step towards normalization of relationships.
While discussions continue, it remains imperative to keep an attentive eye on the realities that will influence this commitment. The complexity of the situation requires a thoughtful approach, involving not only direct actors, but also the international community as a whole. This framework may make it possible to further inform the steps to follow to reduce tensions and promote peaceful coexistence.