The U.S.-Iranian Negotiations: Beyond the Rhetoric

Austin, TX, Feb. 13, 2008 – In Stratfor’s Geopolitical Intelligence Report this week Dr. George Friedman discusses the on-going talks between Iran and the United States and the announcement of a new round of meetings to take place sometime next week. This, coupled with Iranian President Ahmadinejad’s expected visit to Iraq in the near future, shows the discussions have advanced to a public phase.

The interests of the two countries are important to this movement. The United States wants a coalition government in Iraq that is not controlled by Iran, and allows the United States to withdraw its troops. Iran wants an Iraqi government that is not controlled by American’s or Sunnis and will not be in a position to threaten Iran. The Iranians also want the United States to end sanctions against them, while the United States wants Iran to end all their aspects of a nuclear program. Friedman explains why each country is in a place to get what it wants, hence the reason for the public movement in the talks between the U.S. and Iran.

For full analysis go to http://www.stratfor.com/weekly/u_s_iranian_negotiations_beyond_rhetoric

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