The Inside Story Podcast Where do the US-Iran talks stand?
Feb 23, 2026
Richard Weitz, NATO Defence College senior fellow, on military deployments and strategy. Hassan Ahmadian, University of Tehran assistant professor, offering an Iranian policy view. Jamal Abdi, National Iranian American Council president, on US-Iran diplomacy. They discuss military buildup vs diplomacy, Iranian public posture and enrichment stances, US negotiating intent and internal divisions, and possible compromises.
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Military Posture Used To Bolster Diplomacy
- Richard Weitz says the Trump administration pairs a visible military buildup with diplomacy, using force as leverage rather than as an immediate intent to attack.
- He argues Trump prefers negotiation and keeps military options in the background to pressure Iran while pursuing talks.
Iran Sees Naval Buildup As Coercion
- Hassan Ahmadian explains Iran views the U.S. 'armada' as coercive pressure aimed at forcing capitulation rather than genuine diplomacy.
- Iran responds by mixing talk of diplomacy with displays of military strength and mine deployment to strengthen its negotiating position.
Coercion Over Clear Strategy
- Jamal Abdi says the Trump approach emphasizes coercion and bluff, treating force as a bargaining tool rather than a path to open-ended war.
- He warns a strike on Iran would lead to prolonged, costly military commitments the administration hasn't fully planned.