Dissent is growing in Iran against a potential deal with the US, with hardliners criticizing the reported details of the agreement. Despite this, the Iranian regime is likely to have the final say on the matter.
Background
The US and Iran have been negotiating a deal to end the conflict that began over three months ago. However, some factions in Iran are not happy with the terms of the agreement, with hardliners taking to state-media to express their criticisms.
A fringe faction known as the Endurance Front, or Jebhe-ye Paydari, has been particularly vocal in its opposition to the deal. The group views itself as a guardian of the values of the 1979 revolution that overthrew the pro-Western Shah and imposed an authoritarian regime rooted in Shia Islamist ideology.
Opposition to the Deal
One prominent hardliner, Mahmoud Nabavian, has stated that if Iran signs the agreement, it will effectively become a colony of the US. He also claimed that the agreement would mean opening up the vital Strait of Hormuz, even for Israel.
Nabavian, who was once a member of the negotiation team, added that if Iran wants to carry out even the smallest amount of uranium enrichment, it would first have to obtain permission from the US. He also questioned when Iran would benefit from the release of its frozen assets overseas or sanctions relief.
The hardliners have even mobilized protests against any agreement, organizing a large demonstration for Sunday night outside the foreign ministry targeting Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi.
Regime Control
Despite the growing dissent, the Iranian regime retains control over the decision-making process. The supreme leader, the president, the foreign minister, the parliament speaker, and the military have all made a point of showcasing unity in their efforts to negotiate a diplomatic resolution with the US.
However, core elements of the Islamic Republic, including the state broadcaster, veteran conservative politicians, and protesters who claim victory in the war against the US and Israel, have intensified their efforts against any agreement, which they view as surrendering the gains from the war.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
