Washington: As Washington weighs military pressure against diplomacy, President Donald Trump has paused plans for a major strike on Iran while negotiations continue over the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran's nuclear program. Both Tehran and Washington say talks are progressing, but no agreement has yet been reached.

According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, retired Vice Admiral Robert Harward, a former Navy SEAL who served as deputy commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), shared insights into Iran's strategic approach in an interview. Harward, drawing from his experience living in Iran and dealing with its government, suggests that Iran views the current diplomatic situation as an opportunity to buy time. He believes that the Iranian leadership, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), sees protracted negotiations as advantageous, allowing them to possibly outlast President Trump's administration or the political will of the United States.

Harward also noted that the US administration initially underestimated the need to consolidate all elements of national power. Now, realizing that military pressure alone has not yielded desired outcomes, there is a shift towards a more comprehensive strategy involving political, economic, and military measures. This includes efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and address Iran's nuclear ambitions, as well as political leverage through international coalitions and regional diplomacy.

Further, Harward explained that Iran's reluctance to aggressively pursue a deal stems from the IRGC's grip on power and its desire to maintain control. Relinquishing power or showing weakness could lead to internal accountability for past actions and pose existential threats to its leadership. He emphasized that the IRGC's strategy is to hold onto power at all costs, fearing the long-term consequences of any concessions.

Harward highlighted a common miscalculation among outside observers regarding Iran's leadership. He pointed out that there is a significant opportunity in the desire for change among Iran's population, which has not been fully leveraged by the US. While President Trump has acknowledged this, policies to capitalize on it remain insufficient. Harward warns that any agreement with Iran, like the JCPOA, could allow Iran to continue its activities outside the agreed guidelines, posing a long-term threat.

In his discussions with ordinary Iranians, Harward noted their optimism and hope for a change in government. They express frustration over the misuse of Iran's resources under the current regime and aspire for freedoms and prosperity similar to neighboring countries. Harward's Iranian contacts hope the US remains committed to pursuing a government in Iran that prioritizes the development and well-being of its people.