The United States and Iran: Moving Towards a New Dialogue (Report‪)‬

Editor's Note: Mutual fears and misunderstandings built up over decades make it highly difficult for Iranians and Americans to enter into productive negotiations. Moreover, Iran's revolutionary leaders need the "Great Satan" as an enemy in order to maintain internal control. Nonetheless, this essay argues, there is now an opportunity for both countries to advance their interests through diplomacy. Can they seize it?--Ed. Now that there is increasing discussion about a possible meeting at the highest levels of the U.S. and Iranian governments, it is worth asking how this would advance U.S. foreign policy objectives for greater stability in the Middle East and minimize nuclear weapons proliferation. At the same time, it is worth asking what such a meeting might accomplish. How would it benefit Iran and its revolutionary leadership? What do both countries stand to gain through renewed dialogue?