Esmaeil Baghaei’s Insights on Foreign Policy Amid Current Regional Tensions

One of the central themes in Baghaei’s recent statements is Iran’s commitment to its nuclear program and the ongoing negotiations surrounding it The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action known as the Iran nuclear deal was a landmark agreement aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief However the unilateral withdrawal of the United States from the agreement in 2018 and the subsequent reimposition of sanctions have created significant challenges for Iran’s economy and its diplomatic relations Baghaei has consistently emphasized Iran’s right to pursue its nuclear program while also expressing a willingness to engage in negotiations that respect the country’s sovereignty and national interests.

In addition to the nuclear issue Iran’s foreign policy is heavily influenced by its relationships with neighboring countries The dynamics of these relationships are shaped by historical ties sectarian divides and regional rivalries For instance Iran’s support for groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen has drawn criticism from its regional adversaries particularly Saudi Arabia and Israel Baghaei has defended Iran’s support for these groups as a legitimate response to what he describes as external aggression and interference in the region He argues that Iran’s involvement is aimed at promoting stability and countering threats to its national security.

The relationship between Iran and the United States remains one of the most contentious aspects of Iran’s foreign policy The Biden administration has signaled a desire to return to diplomatic negotiations regarding the nuclear deal yet significant obstacles remain The ongoing tensions between the two countries have been exacerbated by incidents such as attacks on shipping in the Persian Gulf and military confrontations in Iraq and Syria Baghaei has reiterated Iran’s position that any negotiations must be based on mutual respect and recognition of Iran’s rights as a sovereign nation He has also called for the lifting of sanctions as a prerequisite for meaningful dialogue.

January 6, 2026 | 5:40 am