When 'New Deals' Recalibrate Old Sanctions
THE ACTORS: Who is involved in this story? Steve Witkoff: U.S. President Donald Trump's 'special envoy'. Witkoff, primarily known as a real estate developer, was appointed to this diplomatic role, raising questions about his expertise in complex nuclear negotiations. His involvement echoes instances where business figures are parachuted into high-stakes statecraft, often prioritizing transactional
outcomes over long-term strategic stability. (Source: The New York Times, 2024, on previous appointments) Abbas Araqchi: Iranian Foreign Minister. A seasoned diplomat, Araqchi has been a key negotiator for Iran on nuclear matters for years, including during the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) talks. His presence indicates the continuity of Iranian diplomatic strategy, often
adapting to the shifting demands of various U.S. administrations. Donald Trump's Administration: The 'president's been calling for them to make a deal,' suggests a transactional approach to foreign policy, often characterized by unilateral withdrawals and re-negotiations of multilateral agreements. This stance contrasts sharply with traditional diplomatic frameworks, emphasizing bilateral
leverage. THE FUNDING: Where does their money come from? U.S. Administration: Funding for diplomatic efforts flows from congressional appropriations. However, the larger financial leverage stems from the U.S. dollar's global dominance and the ability to impose and enforce sanctions. In 2023, the U.S. imposed over 1,500 new sanctions targeting Russia and Iran, impacting over $3 trillion in global