While Tehran's staunchest critics have criticized US-Iran nuclear talks as legitimizing an irredeemable enemy, a former lead US negotiator in previous talks tells Eye for Iran that diplomacy should be seen as a strategic tool and not a reward.

In a candid conversation, Richard Nephew firmly rejected the idea that engagement equals reward. Asked whether sitting down with Iranian officials — after Tehran-backed forces targeted US bases, launched missiles at Israel in 2024, supported regional proxies, and may have played a role in orchestrating the October 7 Hamas attacks — sends the wrong signal, Nephew didn’t hold back.

“I have to smile when I hear about diplomacy being seen as a reward. I couldn't disagree more with that,” Nephew said. “Diplomacy is a national security and foreign policy tool."

Drawing on his direct experience negotiating across the table from Iran’s current foreign minister Abbas Araghchi during the JCPOA talks, Nephew shares rare, personal insights into Iran’s negotiating style — and reveals how Iranian officials view American diplomats.

Is diplomacy still the smartest path forward — or is the Islamic Republic getting a pass?

Watch the full interview now on YouTube, or listen on any major podcast platform.

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