Trying to understand contradictory statements from White House vs Iran about war negotiations.
Carol Massar
Onur Ant
Trump backed down from threat to strike Iranian energy sites, gave Iran 5-day reprieve, claiming talks are happening.
Onur Ant
Iran sees war as existential threat, doesn't want to project weakness to public, even if back-channel negotiations exist.
Onur Ant
Iranian messaging is highly centralized and choreographed, not free media reporting.
Onur Ant
If war ends without conclusive peace agreement giving US/Israel all concessions, Iran could claim victory and maintain legitimacy.