For this reason, the United States must display political flexibility in its negotiations with the Islamic Republic. Rather than present the country with an ultimatum, America must seek to offer a range of possible outcomes. Sanctions, properly applied, can be used to provide motivation, but America’s end goal must be a grand bargain that restricts Iran’s ability to antagonize its neighbors yet still grants it some concessions and allows the regime to save face.  

Striking this delicate balance will not be easy. But it will be easier than going to war. 

Trevor Filseth is an editorial intern for the National Interest.

This article first appeared on December 9, 2020.

Image: Wikimedia Commons