Senior operatives from the Biden administration engaged in back-door discussions with the Iranian regime last week in the Gulf state of Oman. These talks come even as Iran, through its proxies, continues its offensive against Israel and disrupts international shipping lanes. The administration’s motive appears to be diffusing regional tensions, but history suggests a troubling pattern.
These covert engagements are eerily reminiscent of Barack Obama’s secret talks with Iran in Oman in 2013, which laid the groundwork for the deeply flawed Iran nuclear deal. That agreement, often criticized as one-sided, essentially handed Iran the green light to develop its nuclear capabilities after a temporary hiatus. President Donald Trump rightly ended this disastrous deal in 2018, to much applause from those valuing a strong national defense. Yet, President Joe Biden has been desperately trying—and failing—to breathe life back into this dangerous accord.
The renewed discussions in Oman might masquerade as a diplomatic effort to prevent wider conflict, but let’s be clear: they serve as nothing but reassurances to Iran that it can continue its belligerence without fear of a meaningful U.S. or Israeli response. This administration’s weak-kneed approach is paving the way for further escalation, endangering our allies and global stability.
A report from The Times of Israel reveals that senior U.S. officials engaged in indirect talks with Iran, prompted by last month’s fierce confrontations between the Islamic Republic and Israel. The Biden team dispatched White House Middle East envoy Brett McGurk and acting Iran envoy Abram Paley for these discussions, the first of their kind since January. An Israeli government source verified the report, adding that McGurk also had meetings in Saudi Arabia.
This comes after Iran launched approximately 300 missiles and drones targeting Israel, most of which were neutralized. Under pressure from the Biden administration, Israel showed restraint and conducted limited strikes on Iranian air defenses, showcasing its ability to deliver much harsher blows if needed in future skirmishes.
It’s crucial to recognize the consistent failure of the Obama-Biden doctrine. Prioritizing appeasement over strength leads only to emboldened adversaries. America must stand firmly by its principles, not bend them to placate a regime that openly challenges our interests and those of our allies.
Joel B. Pollak, a distinguished voice at Breitbart News and host of Breitbart News Sunday, rightly highlights these festering issues. His insights remind us of the importance of robust journalism in holding those in power accountable and ensuring our policies truly defend freedom and democracy.