Iranian diplomats engaged in ceasefire talks with the United States have reportedly resorted to studying Donald Trump's 1987 book, "The Art of the Deal," and consulting psychologists to comprehend the former president's unpredictable negotiation strategies. The US and Iran have been involved in peace talks, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, since mid-April.
According to reports, Trump, whose officials including Vice President JD Vance represented him in negotiations, repeatedly issued threats via social media that jeopardized the ongoing discussions. In early June, shortly before the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at de-escalating tensions, Trump threatened military action against Iran if an agreement was not reached. The Wall Street Journal noted that Iranian diplomats have been analyzing "The Art of the Deal" to understand Trump's approach, which advocates for extreme and unpredictable demands to unsettle opposing parties.
This unusual preparation was tested when, during fragile talks in Switzerland, Trump again threatened to attack Iran if it continued to fund Hezbollah. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's chief negotiator and Parliament Speaker, informed his US counterpart, JD Vance, that these threats violated the newly signed MoU. Following this, Iran's delegation ended face-to-face discussions, with Ghalibaf stating, "Today your president has issued threats. Understand that we never negotiate under threats or pressure." Despite this interruption, Iran later reported that technical talks in Switzerland concluded successfully.
Strait of Hormuz Negotiations and Congressional Dissent
The interim peace deal, signed last week, commits Iran to facilitating the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days without charge. The agreement also stipulates that Iran will collaborate with Oman to determine the future administration and maritime services of the vital waterway, though significant uncertainty remains about post-60-day arrangements. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated that tolls cannot be levied on international waterways, a stance supported by the UK. The Strait of Hormuz has been a critical point of contention in US-Iran relations, with Tehran having previously disrupted global oil and gas supplies by closing the waterway.
Despite the interim agreement, Iran has stated that vessels must seek permission to use the channel and has raised the possibility of future charges. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority has demanded that vessels submit requests 48 hours in advance and indicated that administrative tariffs could be implemented after the 60-day period. Rubio, however, emphasized that charging tolls on international waterways is against existing international law.
Meanwhile, the deal has faced domestic criticism in Washington. The Republican-controlled Senate recently approved a measure under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, demanding that President Trump either cease military action against Iran or seek congressional approval. Although the measure passed both chambers, it is largely symbolic as it will not be sent to Trump for his signature. Trump publicly expressed his frustration on Truth Social, criticizing the Senate's vote as poorly timed and counterproductive, claiming it aids Iran. He stated, "These Senators have just made my job more difficult, but I will get it done, one way or the other, because I always get it done!"
Deal Details and Disputed Terms
The interim agreement allows Iran to resume oil sales and includes a future reconstruction fund. However, it does not address Iran's ballistic missile program, a point previously emphasized by the White House. Trump has indicated that denying Iran its missiles would be unfair. Regarding nuclear inspections, Trump asserted that Iran agreed to unspecified inspections "into infinity," a claim that Tehran has denied, stating they only agreed to allow a UN watchdog to conduct checks. Rubio clarified that the US knows what was agreed upon and that Iran's compliance will determine the next steps.