Iran Emerged Stronger After Conflict, Warns Former US Negotiator Wendy Sherman

Iran has emerged from the war in a much stronger position than the United States, according to former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, who led the negotiations for the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran. In an interview with Euronews, Sherman warned that major uncertainties remain over any potential deal between Washington and Tehran.

The conflict and its aftermath

The conflict began on 28 February with joint US–Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and government sites, resulting in the assassination of Iranian officials and leader Ali Khamenei. Sherman noted that the war stressed the need for diplomacy: “Diplomacy is necessary. Military action will not solve this problem.” Source: Euronews

Talks and verification

Sherman welcomed the current talks but highlighted disagreements: “The United States is saying one thing and Iran is saying something else.” She criticized the reported cost of the framework agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting it gives Iran “quite a bit for not very much.” Verification is key; she stressed that IAEA inspectors must return, but the U.S. and Iran dispute whether Tehran agreed to allow inspections of its nuclear sites. Source: Euronews

Regional implications

Sherman warned that Iran could emerge with greater influence in Lebanon and across the region, complicating wider stability efforts. Source: Euronews