Trump’s 14-Point Deal Gives Iran Diplomatic Upper Hand, Expert Warns

A leading international politics expert warns that Donald Trump’s acceptance of an Iranian proposal has handed Tehran the political initiative in ongoing negotiations. Scott Lucas, Professor of American Studies and International Politics at University College Dublin’s Clinton Institute, says both Iran and Israel are increasingly acting on their own, ignoring Washington’s preferences. Lucas argues this exposes Trump’s fading ability to control events. He adds that Tehran is working to reshape the diplomatic process, insisting on linking separate issues—such as developments in Lebanon, security in the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and regional stability—into a single bargaining framework.