American political analyst John Mearsheimer has said that Iran is unlikely to engage in negotiations with individuals it considers too closely aligned with Israel.
Speaking on the issue, Mearsheimer explained that Tehran prefers dealing with negotiators it views as neutral or balanced in their approach to Middle East politics. He noted that trust plays a key role in diplomatic talks, and perceived bias can make negotiations more difficult.
He specifically criticized Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, suggesting that Iran sees them as closely connected to Israeli interests. According to Mearsheimer, this perception reduces the chances of productive dialogue between the United States and Iran.
The comments come at a time of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, where diplomatic efforts remain sensitive and complex. Analysts say that the choice of negotiators can significantly influence the success or failure of international talks.
Mearsheimer’s remarks highlight the broader challenge of building trust between rival nations, especially in a region shaped by long-standing political and security concerns.