Delano D’Souza is pleased to welcome Ali Vaez, Director of Iran Project & Senior Advisor at the International Crisis Group. He examines the evolving strategic landscape between Iran and the US in the aftermath of the military and economic war. From Tehran’s perspective, the balance of leverage has shifted. Iran believes it can better withstand prolonged pressure, while Washington faces mounting political and economic constraints at home and abroad. He argues that this asymmetry shapes both sides’ negotiating behaviour.