|
Trending Topics
|
Source: https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-892271
U.S. Shouldn't Negotiate with Iran until It Realizes How Badly It's Losing
(Jerusalem Post) Editorial - On Monday, Iran rejected an intermediate ceasefire framework and resisted any immediate move to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran's refusal should be seen as evidence that the regime still believes time, pressure on global energy markets, and outside fears of escalation can rescue it from a deteriorating position. Iran remains dangerous, but danger is not the same thing as strength. It has demonstrated an ability to inflict pain, but not an ability to force an American or Israeli strategic retreat. Their military operations continue against Iranian targets. Iran is outmanned, outgunned, and outclassed in any sustained contest with the U.S. and Israel combined. Yet it continues to make demands as if it is holding the cards and that the U.S. should be the one begging for concessions. If Tehran refuses to negotiate in a way that reflects the battlefield, then the U.S. and Israel should continue degrading the regime's capabilities in recognition that the current diplomacy is detached from reality. There is no virtue in reaching an agreement that allows Iran to emerge claiming it stared down a superior force and won better terms. The correct policy is to continue the campaign until Tehran surrenders the illusion of leverage.