Escalation with Israel, support for militias of the so-called “Axis of Resistance”, the suppression of protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, and the continued progress in Iran’s nuclear programme have made Iran an increasingly challenging partner for the West to engage in dialogue with. In this context, however, for the second time in the history of the Islamic Republic, a reformist president was elected last July to lead the country. Despite the many obstacles and challenges, Masoud Pezeshkian’s victory may offer a rare opportunity to establish new channels of communication between Tehran and Western nations. 

How to engage Iran in an increasingly problematic regional scenario? Is there a way to reduce mutual mistrust between Iran and the West? What strategies could be adopted? What compromises might be achievable on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, its regional influence, and the state of human rights within the country?