Iran stronger after conflict, warns former Iran negotiator Wendy Sherman

Iran Stronger After Conflict, Warns Former Iran Negotiator Wendy Sherman

Iran stronger after conflict warns former - Wendy Sherman, a former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, has cautioned that Iran has gained a more powerful stance following the recent conflict. The war, which began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and government installations, led to the assassination of key Iranian officials and the leader Ali Khamenei. Sherman, a seasoned diplomat known for her role in negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal, believes the United States has underestimated the strategic gains Iran has secured through the crisis. "The situation has shifted in a way that favors Tehran," she remarked, reflecting on the aftermath of the strikes.

During an interview with Euronews, Sherman acknowledged the progress in current talks between Washington and Tehran. However, she emphasized that the path to a deal remains uncertain. "The dynamics of the negotiations are still evolving," she noted. "There’s a lack of clarity about what is being negotiated and what the true objectives are." The diplomat pointed out that while the U.S. and Iran are engaging in dialogue, their positions often diverge, creating a gap between their stated goals and the actual outcomes. "The United States is saying one thing, and Iran is responding with another," she added.

Sherman also critiqued the cost of the proposed framework agreement tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. She argued that the deal appears to offer Iran substantial benefits for relatively modest concessions. "It seems like Iran is getting a lot for not much," she said, highlighting concerns about the balance of power in the agreement. The diplomat stressed that verification processes must be robust to ensure transparency. "Without accurate inspections, there’s no way to confirm what’s being agreed upon," she explained.

"You can’t move forward in the negotiations without understanding the real situation on the ground," Sherman stated. "Verification is the cornerstone of any lasting agreement."

Currently, the U.S. and Iran are in disagreement over the terms of the framework agreement. A central point of contention is whether Tehran has agreed to allow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to access its nuclear facilities. Sherman noted that this verification issue is critical, as it directly impacts the credibility of the deal. "The absence of clear inspection protocols could undermine the entire process," she warned.

Despite the challenges, Sherman remained optimistic about the potential for diplomacy. "Talks are essential," she said. "They provide the only path to resolving these complex issues." The former negotiator argued that military action, while necessary in some cases, is insufficient to address the broader geopolitical tensions. "Military strikes may achieve short-term goals, but they don’t eliminate the root causes of the conflict," she explained. She also expressed concerns about the long-term implications of Iran’s strengthened position, particularly its growing influence in Lebanon and the broader Middle East.

Analysts have observed that the conflict has amplified Iran’s strategic reach in the region. With the U.S. and its allies engaged in military operations, Iran has leveraged the situation to solidify its alliances and assert control over key areas. Sherman warned that this expansion could complicate efforts to stabilize the region. "If Iran continues to gain influence in Lebanon, it could shift the power dynamics in ways that are difficult to reverse," she said. The diplomat called for a more cooperative approach to prevent further escalation.

Looking ahead, Sherman believes the negotiations must address not only immediate concerns but also long-term stability. "This isn’t just about one deal—it’s about rebuilding trust and ensuring that both sides have a shared vision for the future," she explained. The former negotiator highlighted the importance of maintaining consistent communication channels, even as tensions rise. "Without continuous dialogue, the risk of renewed conflict increases."

While the U.S. has been focused on its strategic objectives in the region, Sherman suggested that Iran’s ability to navigate the crisis has demonstrated its resilience. "Tehran has adapted quickly to the challenges, and that’s a sign of its strength," she said. The diplomat also pointed out that the international community must remain vigilant in monitoring the progress of talks. "There’s a lot at stake, and we can’t afford to overlook the details," she urged.

In conclusion, Sherman reiterated her belief that diplomacy, rather than military force, is the key to resolving the conflict. "We need to prioritize dialogue and ensure that every step taken is backed by verifiable results," she emphasized. As the negotiations continue, the outcome will depend on both sides’ willingness to compromise and their ability to align on shared goals. For Sherman, the path forward is clear: "Only through sustained effort can we hope to achieve a stable and lasting agreement."

Watch the full interview in the player above to gain deeper insights into Sherman’s perspective and the ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.