History may repeat itself. We do not forget the iconic scene of Iranian Minister Javad Zarif standing on the balcony of the Palais Coburg Hotel in Vienna 11 years ago, waving to journalists with a smile after signing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. It was a spectacular Iranian victory, co-signed by US President Barack Obama. All of Europe supported it, and China and Russia were witnesses. Vienna’s joy was short-lived as the JCPOA was quickly torn up by Obama’s successor, Donald Trump. Relations became strained, ports were closed, oil tankers were pursued, and Iran was besieged.

As diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran continue to inch forward, one thing has become increasingly clear: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu views the prospect…

Military correspondents and economic commentators warn that a costly and inconclusive war has left Tehran emboldened and the prime minister diminished at home