The upcoming American presidential election is taking place amidst high tensions between Iran and the United States, reminiscent of the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. Iran is currently embroiled in conflicts in the Middle East, with its allies being targeted by Israel. Additionally, Iran is facing economic challenges due to international sanctions related to its nuclear program. The Iranian currency, the rial, is at record lows against the dollar.
Despite the challenges facing Iran, many citizens are divided on which candidate in the U.S. election would be better for their country. Both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have taken hard-line stances on Iran in the past. Trump withdrew the U.S. from the nuclear deal with Tehran, while Harris has expressed support for Israel’s defense against threats from Iran. Some Iranians believe Harris would be more likely to prioritize peace over war, while others think Trump’s dealmaking abilities may lead to quicker resolutions.
There is concern among Iranians about the possibility of a direct U.S.-Iran war, especially if Trump wins the election. Some believe that a female president like Harris may face challenges in negotiating with Iran, while others think Trump’s re-election could lead to increased tensions in the region. The Iranian government, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, is hoping for a change in U.S. policies and a return to negotiations that would ease sanctions on Iran.
Analysts are skeptical about the possibility of fruitful U.S.-Iran talks regardless of the election outcome. The talks are expected to be challenging, with past grievances and geopolitical tensions complicating the dialogue. Ultimately, the decisions regarding U.S.-Iran relations lie with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has experience dealing with multiple U.S. presidents over the years. The path forward for U.S.-Iran relations remains uncertain as the election approaches.
Overall, the Iranian population is wary of the impact that the U.S. election could have on their country. Some fear increased tensions and the possibility of war under a Trump administration, while others hope for a more peaceful resolution under a Harris presidency. The outcome of the election is closely watched in Iran, as it could shape the future of U.S.-Iran relations and have significant implications for the region.
