Diplomats familiar with the P5+1 negotiations with Iran say that they believe President Hassan Rohani’s election will set the stage for a serious chance at a deal, particularly since Rohani has openly advocated negotiation.
“Rouhani’s election could provide an opportunity and we are expecting to see a change in tone,” noted one diplomat, and Rohani is under pressure to deliver at least some progress quickly.
At the same time, they say the pressure on Rohani means that public opinion in Iran could quickly turn away from negotiations if there is no progress toward easing sanctions.
That may complicate things, however, as the belief that Rohani is “under pressure” will likely mean the US pushing for harsher terms of a deal, and seeking to avoid any compromise.
