This article argues against relying on Russia to mediate a nuclear agreement between the U.S. and Iran, citing Russia’s alignment with Iranian interests and its history of undermining U.S. objectives in the Middle East. The author suggests that the U.S. should instead collaborate with E3 allies to strengthen its negotiating position and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities.
Recent developments indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to mediate a new nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran, following a request allegedly made by U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly discussed this mediation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a meeting in Saudi Arabia. The urgency for a new deal has been stressed by Trump, particularly through his recent executive order to reinstate the maximum pressure campaign on Iran.
It is advisable for the White House to reconsider this course of action. Russia’s alignment with Iranian interests implies that it is an unsuitable intermediary, posing a risk of undermining U.S. objectives in the Middle East, alongside those of its partners, such as Israel and the Gulf nations. Utilizing Russia in this capacity represents a significant miscalculation, as their historical actions in the region have favored adversaries of the United States.
Assuming that Putin shares America’s long-term interests in preventing Iran from developing nuclear capabilities is a grave mistake. Such faith would be akin to believing that a predator could negotiate peace for its prey. The environment suggests that Russia is more likely to collaborate with Iran for mutual gains rather than working towards a productive agreement that safeguards American and its allies’ security.
Trump’s shift in supporting Ukraine contrasts sharply with the potential engagement with Russia over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Previous administrations have built alliances to counter Russian aggression; hence, inviting Moscow as a mediator would contradict the efforts made to support U.S. allies in Europe, particularly in the wake of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Historically, Russia has acted contrary to U.S. interests in the Middle East by reinforcing the positions of America’s adversaries, including Iran. Russia’s involvement in propping up Bashar al-Assad in Syria and its arms support for groups like Hezbollah have directly affected U.S. regional allies. Recent assessments indicate that a significant portion of Hezbollah’s weaponry originates from Russian supplies, further complicating the security dynamics in the area.
Moreover, Russia’s military and economic collaborations with Iran have grown stronger. This includes direct assistance with Iran’s missile capabilities and a cooperative treaty that enhances their relationship amidst U.S. sanctions. Such partnerships allow Iran to sustain its economy while pursuing weapons programs, essentially running counter to U.S. sanctions aimed at curbing these threats.
While Russia may possess leverage over Iran, it is crucial to recognize that Moscow’s true allegiances align with Tehran rather than Washington. This relationship could enable Russia to obstruct U.S. efforts in negotiating a nuclear agreement while potentially facilitating further developments in Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Thus, President Trump must avoid relying on Russia, an adversary that has repeatedly acted against American interests. Instead, he ought to engage the E3 states—Germany, France, and the United Kingdom—who have a unified interest in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. By coordinating a multilateral approach, the U.S. could create a more formidable strategy against Iran, fostering collaboration with countries that align with American security interests.
The positions of the E3 regarding Iran have evolved since their previous participation in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. A renewed unified stance with these nations could amplify the effectiveness of the maximum pressure campaign and create a stronger negotiating position for future discussions aimed at disarming Iran’s nuclear aspirations. This coordinated effort would enable the U.S. to pursue its objective of ensuring regional stability and the prevention of an Iranian nuclear weapon.
In summary, the potential mediation by Russia regarding the Iran nuclear deal is fraught with risks that undermine U.S. interests in the region. With historical precedent of Russia obstructing American objectives and its current partnerships with Iran, it is imperative for the U.S. to seek alliances with traditional partners in Europe. By mobilizing the E3 states in a multilateral framework, the U.S. can leverage collective influence to negotiate effectively for the prevention of Iran’s nuclear development.
Original Source: foreignpolicy.com
