How many times were the US and Iran on the verge of a deal?
While a peace agreement remains elusive on the 100th day since the US and Israel first launched strikes on Tehran on February 28, the US and Iran have appeared to come close to a deal on several occa…
While a peace agreement remains elusive on the 100th day since the US and Israel first launched strikes on Tehran on February 28, the US and Iran have
Read Full Story at Al Jazeera →Why This Matters
The recurring near-misses in US-Iran negotiations underscore a dangerous paradox: the absence of direct war does not guarantee lasting stability. Each close call represents a fleeting opportunity to avert escalation, but also a reminder of how fragile diplomatic off-ramps remain when regional proxies and hardliners hold disproportionate influence.
Background Context
The February 28 strikes marked a turning point in Tehran’s long shadow war with Washington, but the roots of this tension stretch back to the 1979 revolution and decades of covert clashes. Iran’s nuclear program, missile advancements, and support for militant groups have repeatedly collided with US sanctions and military posturing, creating a cycle of provocation and restraint.
What Happens Next
The next few weeks will reveal whether negotiators can bridge the gaps on sanctions relief and Iran’s nuclear constraints—or if hardline factions in either capital will sabotage progress. Observers should watch for signs of backchannel diplomacy, as direct talks remain politically toxic in both Tehran and Washington.
Bigger Picture
This standoff reflects a broader erosion of trust in multilateral diplomacy, where even temporary deals face skepticism from domestic opponents. The pattern of near-deals could normalize perpetual brinkmanship, making accidental conflict more likely than comprehensive resolution.
