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[Anchor] After more than two months of fighting, both the United States and Iran are focused on finding a political way out. Negotiations to end the conflict have picked up speed, but analysts say significant obstacles remain. This is Yerin Kim. [Reporter] One major reason talks have accelerated is the political pressure bearing down on both governments. Rising oil prices and growing antiwar sentiment are putting heavy pressure on the Trump administration ahead of the November midterm elections. Iran, meanwhile, is being driven toward negotiations by an economic crisis caused by the maritime blockade. Although Tehran projects a hard line publicly, analysts say the halt in crude exports has pushed the economy to the breaking point. Even if both sides return to the negotiating table, uncertainty will persist. Even after signing a memorandum of understanding, roughly 30 days of detailed talks would be needed to reach a final agreement. Observers worry that is far too little time to bridge the deep gaps between the parties. The Obama administration took 20 months to negotiate the deal that included a 15-year limit on certain aspects of Iran’s nuclear program. President Trump is said to want terms that extend beyond 15 years to preserve the rationale for the war, while Iranian hardliners insist they will not cede nuclear sovereignty. 「Donald Trump / U.S. President (April 28)」 We will never allow our enemies to have nuclear weapons. They know that, and they will feel it strongly now. Because reopening the Strait of Hormuz was to be phased in during the detailed talks, any stall in negotiations would inevitably delay that reopening. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has made clear it will not surrender control of the strait even if it reopens. 「Ebrahim Zolfaghari / Spokesman, Iran Central Military Command (April 18)」 Control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state, and this strategic waterway remains under strict military control. With tensions high, The New York Times noted there are few signs that diplomacy aimed at ending the war is producing results. The Trump administration has also sent mixed messages about operations targeting Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced an end to military operations against Iran, but President Trump warned he would resume heavier strikes if Iran does not agree. Analysts say the administration’s conflicting signals have sown confusion and become an obstacle to negotiations. This is Yerin Kim for Yonhap News TV. [Video edit: Kim Gun-young] For Yonhap News TV story inquiries and tips: KakaoTalk/Line jebo23 Yerin Kim (yey@yna.co.kr)
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