During Iran’s presidential campaign, the focus has been on Donald J. Trump, with candidates emphasizing the importance of dealing with him rather than President Biden. The fear of another Trump presidency looms large in the minds of Iranian voters, given his past actions such as pulling out of the nuclear deal and imposing economic sanctions on Iran.
The candidates, including five conservatives and a reformist, all acknowledge the significance of foreign policy in the upcoming election. They believe that economic relief for Iran is closely tied to its relations with the rest of the world, especially in dealing with potential challenges from a Trump administration.
The shadow of Mr. Trump has prompted Iran to start preparing for his potential return, with discussions on how to navigate negotiations with him. Iranian officials have considered whether it would be more prudent to wait for a deal with Mr. Trump or to engage with the current administration under President Biden.
The conservative front-runner, Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, has highlighted the need for strategic decision-making in dealing with Trump, emphasizing the importance of restoring the nuclear deal and alleviating sanctions on Iran.
In the face of concerns about Trump, Iranian voters are seeking clarity on how candidates plan to address the challenges posed by his possible return to power. Foreign policy, particularly related to nuclear negotiations, is a key issue in the election, with candidates presenting different strategies for handling Trump.
As the election nears, the focus remains on Trump, with candidates trying to position themselves as the best choice to navigate potential conflicts with the former president. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for Iran’s future relations with the United States and the rest of the world.
Overall, the specter of a Trump comeback has cast a long shadow over Iran’s political landscape, shaping the discourse and priorities of the presidential candidates. As the election unfolds, the question of how to confront Trump looms large, underscoring the complex and high-stakes nature of Iran’s foreign relations in the current geopolitical climate.
