War has given Iran new leverage for nuclear programme, say US former envoys

The Guardian US News
by Andrew Roth in Washington
April 10, 2026
3 min read

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Former US-Iran envoys say the Middle East crisis strengthened Iran's ability to resist nuclear limits.

How This Affects You

Iran's increased leverage in nuclear negotiations could impact global non-proliferation efforts and international stability.

AI Summary

Former US-Iran envoys state that the ongoing Middle East crisis has provided Iran with new methods to resist nuclear limits. Negotiators for the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) assert that Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz demonstrated its ability to "balance asymmetry of power" with the US. These former envoys believe the US-Israeli attack on Iran and Tehran's response have strengthened Iran's resolve against pressure to halt its nuclear program. They contend that the Trump administration's actions inadvertently handed Iran a significant advantage by showcasing its capacity to disrupt critical shipping lanes. This development suggests Iran may now have increased leverage in future negotiations regarding its nuclear uranium enrichment.

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