Former diplomat Suresh Goel has stated that while US President Donald Trump claimed a deal had been reached with Iran, Tehran has not yet agreed, highlighting a clear contradiction between the two sides. Speaking to ANI, Goel noted that despite deep-rooted differences, both nations recognize the need to temporarily ease tensions. The US is focused on domestic priorities like midterm elections and Fourth of July celebrations, while Iran seeks assurances for its regional security.
Contradiction in Statements
Goel said, "Trump has already said that the deal has been reached and would be signed, and JD Vance would actually be there in Europe. But the signing of the agreement, Iran, on the other hand, has clearly indicated that there is no deal till now. They have not agreed to anything so far. So there is a contradiction in what Trump is saying and what Iran is saying." He added that irrespective of contradictions and disagreements, both Iran and the USA realize there is a need for this conflict to end for the time being, though differences are too deep-rooted to be resolved permanently.
US Domestic Priorities and Iran's Security Concerns
Goel explained that the US has another interest: midterm elections and Fourth of July celebrations. Meanwhile, Iran is getting tired, but its security remains a main concern. "They cannot come to an agreement where they see that their security interests have been jeopardised. And their security interests involve Lebanon and the Middle East. It's some kind of assurance that they will not be attacked," he added.
Tanker Attack Condemned as War Crime
Commenting on the attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello, which left three Indian seafarers dead, Goel described it as a war crime. However, he cautioned that extreme retaliatory measures may not be realistic. "Even if it is a war crime, what exactly are we going to do about it? Shall we go to the Security Council and make a complaint? Or should we take an action within India...? I think, given the present kind of circumstances, they will both be seen as extreme actions," he said.
India's Diplomatic Path Forward
Goel emphasized that India must navigate the situation carefully, balancing justice for the incident with practical diplomatic responses. He noted that protests have been raised and more will follow if such incidents continue. Americans will assure India of investigating the matter, and gradually it will become part of the broader conflict. "It is a war crime. It is a violation of the freedom of navigation," Goel stated.
The incident involved 24 Indian crew members onboard the MT Settebello. Officials confirmed that 21 were rescued, while three were initially reported missing.
