As Iran-US talks falter, Gulf countries need to step up to save the day

The US-Iran talks are faltering again as the gap between the two countries’ positions widens. While American negotiators are sounding optimistic and showing considerable flexibility, Tehran is doubling down on its seven conditions and demanding the US deliver its concessions first.

One reason for the impasse is the internal power struggle underway in Tehran, where the protagonists vying for power are fearful of appearing to give concessions, lest they be accused of being soft on the US, Iran’s archenemy.

What makes matters worse this time is that Iran is trying to take advantage of the changing political fortunes of its two main antagonists, Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu.