TEHRAN, Iran — Ever since 1979, when Iran’s relations with the United States started to deteriorate following the Islamic Revolution, there have been numerous attempts — by both sides — to resolve differences. The latter includes Iran’s previous efforts to free American hostages in Lebanon, and also, collaboration with Washington on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan. Ultimately, these efforts were unsuccessful in changing the dynamic of the US-Iran relationship.
Iran’s supreme leader, who once allowed Iranian diplomats to engage with the United States on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, more recently again authorized Iranian technocrats to engage with US counterparts on another important issue: the nuclear negotiations with six world powers, which covertly started in Oman and eventually led to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
