Peace talks shadowed by US bombing

by AZADEH AKBAR
Special contributor
TEHRAN, (CAJ News) – FRESH efforts to revive diplomacy between the United States and Iran are once again under way, with mediators in Qatar and Pakistan attempting to reduce tensions after months of confrontation in the Middle East.

Reports indicate that negotiators have discussed sanctions relief, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and broader ceasefire arrangements aimed at preventing further escalation.

Yet the atmosphere surrounding the talks has already been poisoned by renewed military action. Recent American strikes in southern Iran, carried out while negotiations were progressing, have intensified accusations in Tehran that Washington cannot be trusted as a reliable negotiating partner.

Iranian officials argue that this pattern is not new.

Critics of Washington point to previous rounds of dialogue during which military operations involving the United States and Israel continued or intensified despite diplomatic engagement.

These developments have deepened suspicion among many Iranians who believe that diplomacy is too often accompanied by pressure tactics, intimidation and the threat of force rather than genuine compromise.

The danger of such actions extends far beyond the immediate conflict. Peace talks rely fundamentally on trust, consistency and respect for commitments.

When one side believes the other is negotiating in bad faith, even limited progress becomes fragile.

Military strikes launched during negotiations risk undermining moderates, empowering hardliners and convincing ordinary citizens that diplomacy is futile.

History repeatedly shows that threats and warmongering rarely create lasting peace. Nations that rely excessively on coercion can damage their international credibility and weaken future diplomatic efforts.

Allies may become uncertain, adversaries more defensive and neutral countries increasingly sceptical of mediation efforts.

In volatile regions such as the Middle East, this mistrust can quickly spiral into broader instability with global consequences for energy markets, trade and civilian security.

At a time when tensions remain dangerously high, both Washington and Tehran face a critical choice.

They can continue down a path shaped by military escalation and retaliatory rhetoric, or they can commit seriously to dialogue rooted in mutual respect and restraint.

Sustainable peace cannot emerge from fear, threats or sudden acts of force.

It can only be built through dependable diplomacy, honesty and a genuine willingness to avoid further bloodshed.

– CAJ News