Why Iran’s Leaders Think They’ve Won
Iran's leaders are feeling victorious as an interim deal to end the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran appears imminent. The agreement is expected to address several Iranian demands, including the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the release of some frozen assets. However, the regime still faces significant internal challenges, including economic issues and ongoing repression of dissent.
- ▪An interim agreement to end the war is likely to be reached, with Donald Trump conceding to some Iranian demands.
- ▪The deal may allow Iran to levy an environmental-protection fee on passing ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
- ▪Despite the apparent diplomatic success, the Iranian regime continues to face internal unrest and has not softened its stance on dissent.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
GlobalWhy Iran’s Leaders Think They’ve WonAn interim deal promises to meet a lot of Iranian demands, but it won’t solve the problems of peace.By Arash AziziMajid Saeedi / GettyMay 27, 2026, 7:46 AM ET ShareSave An interim agreement to end the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran looks likely, and it may very well find Donald Trump acceding to Iranian demands he has long resisted. Many in the Iranian regime are feeling triumphant, and understandably so, despite the exchange of some strikes in the Persian Gulf this week. But an end to the war will leave the Islamic Republic with a host of unsolved problems.The deal is expected to open the Strait of Hormuz, lifting the blockades imposed by both Iran and the United States.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Atlantic.