Recent U.S.-Iran negotiations have struggled to make progress, with Vice President Vance's efforts in Islamabad ending without concrete results. President Trump remains optimistic about a potential deal, possibly involving Iran giving up its enriched uranium, but experts warn that deep-seated mistrust and contrasting negotiating styles hinder rapid agreements.

Historically, successful negotiations like the 2015 JCPOA involved patience and meticulous diplomacy, notably led by John Kerry and Mohammad Javad Zarif in Vienna. In contrast, current U.S. approaches, marked by maximalist demands from the Trump era, have lacked the patience and detailed engagement required for such complex deals. Iran's negotiation style has proven to be persistent and detail-oriented, with leaders often resisting quick compromises, especially after recent attacks on its nuclear facilities that have further diminished mutual trust.

The ongoing conflict and attacks have heightened Iranian skepticism about U.S. commitments, making them hesitant to relinquish tangible assets like enriched uranium without ironclad guarantees. Experts highlight that negotiations usually level the playing field, with leverage shifting depending on perceived needs. Given the significant changes in Iran’s leadership and military capabilities, previous lessons from the JCPOA may not fully apply, complicating efforts to reach a sustainable peace deal.