Confrontation and thaw

Potential dialogue between US, Iran offers hope for resolving nuclear issues, regional disputes without conflict

The sabre-rattling between the US and Iran is now luckily taking a diplomatic shift, as stakeholders in both impulsive countries have apparently agreed to a tête-à-tête. This change of heart has probably come on the heels of a heightened alert by Tehran to go into an all-out war with Washington, if attacked. The heaviest sea and airborne deployment of the US arsenal in the Mideast waters is a point of concern and could lead to a catastrophic outcome.

The reported exchange of messages between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff for a dialogue is most welcome, and is the only way to go. Tehran must step down the ladder of stubbornness and open up its economy and social strata to the outside world, and make roads for a deal on its ambitious nuclear programme. Rejoining the P5+1 nuclear deal would be a win-win situation and broaden the horizon for greater understanding in world affairs.

According to reports, Witkoff has stated that the US is likely to discuss four issues with Iran: the nuclear profile, enrichment of uranium, regional disputes, and the missile programme. That hints at a comprehensive dialogue, and Washington must stay away from its trigger-happiness if the deal has to come through.

The 12-day war between Iran and Israel, and the onslaught of US bombers to obliterate nuclear sites inside Iran, have ended in a fiasco and proved beyond doubt that there is no militaristic solution to the bilateral acrimony. As President Trump leads from the front in mapping a new world order for himself, as is evident from the Board of Peace for Gaza, he has no choice but to get talking with Iran.

A military confrontation with the Islamic Republic will endanger global peace and security, and there would be no return from the brink. The moment of thaw, as is evident, must walk the talk, and it's time for both parties to come up with concessions and lobbying. Tehran, by desisting from cracking down on dissidents, can make room for a greater rapprochement at home and abroad.