Former President Donald Trump's decision to reduce foreign aid spending could bolster his negotiating position in efforts to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions, according to some analysts.
EJ Kimball, director of Policy & Strategic Operations at the U.S. Israel Education Association, highlighted the Iranian government's unexpected praise for the move, suggesting it reveals Trump's tactical prowess. This comes after the controversial decision to suspend funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and dismiss a significant number of its employees, a move the administration justified as eliminating unnecessary government expenditure.
Ironically, Iran, which has historically viewed U.S. aid with suspicion, seeing it as a destabilizing force, has lauded this decision. Iranian state media reportedly celebrated the cuts, interpreting them as a setback for pro-democracy activists they believe benefited from U.S. support.
This positive reception from Iran coincides with Trump's renewed "maximum pressure" campaign and his unwavering stance against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. While Trump has employed strong rhetoric against Iran, including threats of retaliation if assassination plots against him are proven, he has simultaneously called for negotiations towards a "nuclear peace agreement."
Trump clarified his position on social media, emphasizing his desire for a prosperous Iran, but one without nuclear capabilities. He also dismissed reports of a joint U.S.-Israel plan to attack Iran as "GREATLY EXAGGERATED."
Kimball posits that the aid cuts serve as leverage in potential negotiations, as Trump could reinstate funding if Iran refuses to cooperate. He describes this as a "carrot-and-stick" approach, combining the aid suspension with the threat of sanctions and discussions with Israel about potential military action. This multi-pronged strategy, according to Kimball, keeps Iran off balance.
Kimball believes Trump's ultimate objective is to dismantle Iran's nuclear program without involving American troops in another conflict. He argues that Trump seeks a deal that neutralizes the threat Iran poses to the U.S., Israel, and the wider world, encompassing not only its nuclear ambitions but also its ballistic missile program.
