Atta Mahamed, an international relations expert, said that both the Islamic Republic and the United States believe they are in a situation where they can obtain more concessions from the other side. According to him, Tehran is banking on pressure during the U.S. election period, and Washington also expects greater flexibility from the Islamic Republic of Iran by relying on pressure from a maritime blockade. Mahamed added that the main disagreements remain in place and there is no sign of a closeness to a deal.

Mahamed also said that the countries in the region, including Qatar and Turkey, have increased their diplomatic efforts out of concern about the possible expansion of the war. In his view, the aim of these mediations is not only to reach an agreement, but also to reduce the potential damages of the war to the countries of the region as well. He added that the Islamic Republic considers the threat to expand the war and target the region’s economic infrastructure as its most important deterrent tool.