Iran–United States Relations: A Tale of Two Countries

The relationship between Iran and the United States began in the mid-to-late 19th century, during the era of Qajar Persia. At a time when Persia was wary of British and Russian colonial ambitions during the Great Game, the US was perceived as a more benign foreign power. This trust was solidified when Americans like Arthur Millspaugh and Morgan Shuster were appointed as treasurers-general, tasked with modernizing Iran's finances.

During World War II, despite Iran's occupation by Soviet and British forces (US allies), relations remained constructive. Post-war, this positive trend continued, culminating in a close alliance during the Cold War under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi's regime. Iran became a crucial strategic partner for the United States, a bulwark against Soviet influence in the region, and a recipient of significant US military and economic aid.

This period was characterized by shared strategic interests and a degree of mutual reliance, albeit within an authoritarian framework in Iran.

The seismic shift in Iran–US relations occurred with the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the US-backed monarchy and established the Islamic Republic. This event marked a dramatic reversal, transforming a close ally into a perceived adversary. Formal diplomatic relations were severed on April 7, 1980, initiating a period of profound estrangement.

Since then, communication and representation have been managed through 'protecting powers': Pakistan acts on behalf of Iran in the US, and Switzerland represents US interests in Iran. This indirect channel, operating through the Iranian Interests Section of the Pakistani Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the US Interests Section of the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, highlights the absence of direct engagement. The Supreme Leader of Iran has even banned direct talks with the US, underscoring the deep-seated mistrust and the official policy of non-engagement.

The persistent animosity between Iran and the United States is explained through vastly different lenses. From Iran's perspective, the conflict is framed as an inherent clash between the Islamic system and an 'oppressive' United States seeking global dominance and furthering its own interests at the expense of other nations. Specific grievances often cited include US support for Israel.

In Western analyses, however, alternative explanations are prevalent. These often suggest that the Iranian government utilizes the US as an external 'bogeyman' to consolidate domestic power, justify repression against pro-democratic movements, and rally its loyal base. The US, for its part, frequently points to the 1979–81 Iran hostage crisis, ongoing human rights abuses since the revolution, Iran's anti-Western ideology, its nuclear program, and restrictions on US intelligence gathering methods as primary drivers of deteriorating relations.

Economic policy has been a significant battleground. Since 1995, the United States has maintained an embargo on trade with Iran, a measure intended to pressure the Iranian government. A landmark diplomatic effort was the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or nuclear deal, negotiated by the US and other world powers.

This agreement aimed to significantly limit Iran's nuclear program through inspections and enrichment restrictions, leading to the lifting of most sanctions in 2016. However, the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, re-imposing sanctions and initiating a 'maximum pressure campaign.' This action prompted Iran to gradually reduce its commitments under the deal and increase its uranium enrichment levels, demonstrating the fragility of diplomatic agreements and the impact of unilateral policy shifts.

Despite these tensions, there are instances where shared interests, such as countering Sunni militants in Iraq and fighting the Islamic State, have led to temporary cooperation.

Public opinion polls reveal a stark contrast in how each nation views the other. A 2013 BBC World Service poll indicated that only 5% of Americans viewed Iranian influence positively, with a staggering 87% expressing negative views, making it the most unfavorable perception of Iran globally. Conversely, research suggests that many Iranians hold a more positive view of the American people, though not necessarily the US government.

A 2019 IranPoll survey found that only 13% of Iranians had a favorable view of the United States, with 86% holding an unfavorable one, again reflecting the most unfavorable perception of the US worldwide. These deep-seated negative perceptions, coupled with ongoing geopolitical challenges and policy disagreements, paint a complex picture for the future of Iran–United States relations, where common ground remains elusive and mistrust is pervasive.