US attempts to change Middle East dynamics after strike on Iran
Image: Collected.
JD Vance's comments on changing the Middle East's landscape through diplomacy has certainly been expected. However, let's recall the events of February 28. At that time, they wanted to change the Middle East through war. But that strategy did not work. So, now they are adopting a different road map.
According to the latest information from our colleagues in Lebanon, it seems the situation is returning to normalcy. The situation there has calmed down for now.
It is clear that the United States is now applying unprecedented and intense pressure on Israel. In recent days, this open and direct pressure on Israel has been seen from JD Vance and President Trump himself.
But despite that, Israel still has a massive number of troops deployed there. An area roughly the size of Singapore in southern Lebanon remains under their control. As such, a large-scale military operation still being carried out by Israel.
Why is Iran's top mediator, Ghalibaf, not being seen at the talks?
All delegations were seen in the same room at the talks in Switzerland. This is undoubtedly positive news. Additionally, comments were heard from representatives of three out of the four participating countries. However, no Iranian representative was seen standing in the front row alongside the other leaders. This is quite intriguing.
So why was Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf not present there? Over the past few days, indications from Tehran were that Iranians did not want to give the Americans any opportunity for a joint photo session. However, it is confirmed that they were present in the meeting room. Since it is clearly visible who is inside, it is somewhat difficult to say definitively. But Al Jazeera journalists have reported that Foreign Minister Araghchi was certainly seen there, although he did not give any statement.
This silence from the Iranians while everyone else was speaking proves just how tense the situation is.
This likely also indicates that Iranians are not yet fully assured of how far this negotiation process could proceed. Therefore, before making any comments, they want to see what the final outcome of this meeting is turning out.
The biggest issue that has created the most complications since the signing of the memorandum of understanding is the Lebanon crisis. Iranians are probably seeking strong assurances in the closed-door meetings that pressure on Israel will continue, ensuring that Israel stops its bombardment in the ME region, not just for a single day, but for good. (Source Al Jazeera, Agamir Somoy)
