Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, appears to be proposed by Donald Trump’s administration as a potential negotiator – possibly even as a future leadership figure – in an effort to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis with Iran, according to Politico. American officials report that Washington is trying to identify a person within the Iranian political system who could negotiate an agreement, while Trump is reportedly shifting focus from military pressure to political solutions.
Despite his repeated threats against the US and its allies, the 64-year-old Ghalibaf is considered by some in the White House as a potentially reliable negotiator for this phase. However, the US government does not intend to support exclusively one person, examining multiple candidates to determine who could pursue an agreement. The search for a negotiator suggests that the Trump administration is trying to find solutions to a crisis that has disrupted international markets and raised oil prices, causing inflation concerns.
Trump announces temporary suspension of military strikes on Iran
White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt emphasized that these are sensitive negotiations and that “the United States does not negotiate through the media.” Trump announced a temporary 5-day suspension of military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, noting that diplomatic discussions continue. According to a government official, the protection of the oil center on Kharg Island demonstrates the importance of energy in American strategic moves.
Expert doubts
Despite the focus on Ghalibaf, experts express doubts about whether the US can directly influence Iran’s next leadership. According to Politico, analyst Ali Vaez estimates that even if Ghalibaf wanted compromise, Iran’s military and political system would likely limit his capabilities. Washington is also not seriously considering exiled Reza Pahlavi, due to lack of internal legitimacy, focusing instead on officials who already hold positions of power within Iran.
Finally, as Politico notes, a senior White House official stated that Trump is seeking a peace agreement within the week, aiming for stability in the Strait of Hormuz and a ceasefire. “Like any person, the president would prefer peace over war,” he characteristically added.
