Iran’s reported proposal for negotiations on a wide variety of issues with the P5+1, including hints of direct talks with the United States, is fueling speculation that Tehran may have turned over a new leaf of cooperation (even as it stands firm on its refusal to suspend uranium enrichment and conducts a raft of missile tests). The WaPo’s David Ignatius, for example, has a piece today discussing a recent interview with Iran’s foreign minister, Manouchehr Mottaki. Ignatius’ conclusion is that:
The Iranians are signaling that they want talks with the West — and hinting that they are ready for a serious dialogue with the Great Satan in Washington.
That may be true—I would welcome it—but I’m skeptical it means Tehran is any more willing to compromise on the nuclear issue at this juncture. It would mark a significant shift in Iran’s posture, which is hard to explain. Why now?
I think this is more likely a tactical shift. By showing a bit of leg, the Iranians can convey the appearance of cooperation and get through the waning months of the Bush administration to see what the next U.S. administration will bring to the table.