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A Matter of Identity: How Iran Views the US Election Through a Lens of Sanctions and Diplomacy

 


For Iranians, the US election represents more than just a change of administration; it is a question of national survival. The effects of US sanctions have permeated every aspect of life in Iran, affecting everything from food supplies to healthcare. Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign devastated Iran’s economy, leaving a lasting impact on citizens’ daily lives. Iranians like Sara Abbasi remember the years under Trump as some of the hardest they have faced, with sanctions limiting access to essential goods and causing widespread economic distress.

Biden’s presidency initially raised hopes for diplomacy, yet many Iranians feel that change has been slow. Although Biden signaled an intention to revive the nuclear deal, the progress has been limited, leaving Iranians uncertain about his commitment. For citizens like Mehdi Azizi, the promises of a return to diplomacy have felt empty, as sanctions continue to impact everyday life. The disappointment has led some Iranians to question whether Biden’s policies differ significantly from Trump’s in practical terms.

The possibility of Trump’s return is viewed with alarm by many in Iran. Trump’s policies led to a near-total isolation of Iran, cutting off vital international connections. Iranians like Ali Moradi recall the relentless pressure, fearing that a second term would only increase their suffering. The fear is palpable, as Trump’s sanctions strategy left the country economically weakened and diplomatically isolated, causing distress that has yet to be alleviated under Biden’s administration.

For Iranians, the US election is about more than foreign policy; it impacts their sense of national identity. Many feel that their nation’s dignity has been undermined by years of sanctions and threats of military intervention. This feeling of being treated as a global pariah has left a lasting impact, fostering a strong sense of nationalism in the face of external pressures. Iranians hope that the next US administration, whether led by Biden or Trump, will recognize their country’s right to sovereignty and dignity.

Despite the challenges, there is a cautious desire for diplomacy. Iranians hope that US leaders might eventually choose engagement over isolation, opening pathways to economic and cultural exchange. Citizens like Sara and Mehdi express a longing for a US administration that views Iran not as an adversary but as a nation with legitimate aspirations. However, with the election looming, many feel uncertain, fearing that American interests will once again take precedence over Iranian wellbeing.

As Iranians wait for the results, their hopes for change remain tempered by experience. Many feel that regardless of who wins, the US will continue to use sanctions as a tool of influence, limiting Iran’s potential for growth. The sentiment in Iran is clear: they seek respect and mutual understanding, not further isolation. However, until a shift in policy occurs, Iranians brace themselves for what may be another chapter in a long history of strained US-Iran relations.

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