Iraniani: Trump Vs Harris, Chi Prevale?

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Post on Nov 01, 2024

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Iranians: Trump vs. Harris - Who Prevailed?

The 2020 US Presidential election saw a surge in interest from Iranian Americans, a community deeply impacted by US foreign policy. With Donald Trump's hardline stance on Iran and Kamala Harris's more nuanced approach, the stakes were high for this significant voting bloc.

Trump's Legacy:

Trump's presidency was marked by a hostile approach towards Iran. This included:

• Withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): This deal, aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program, was seen as a positive step by many Iranians. However, Trump's decision to withdraw was met with widespread criticism, leading to increased tensions and sanctions.
• "Maximum pressure" campaign: This strategy involved imposing severe economic sanctions on Iran, targeting its oil exports and financial institutions. While this strategy was aimed at weakening Iran's regime, it also had a devastating impact on ordinary Iranians, causing economic hardship and social unrest.
• Military action: Trump ordered airstrikes against Iranian targets following attacks on US troops in Iraq. This escalation further fuelled tensions and raised fears of a wider conflict.

Harris's Promise:

Harris, on the other hand, presented a different vision for US-Iran relations. She advocated for:

• Returning to the JCPOA: Harris believed in diplomacy and dialogue, stating that the US should rejoin the nuclear deal. This approach resonated with many Iranians who saw it as a step towards de-escalation and stability.
• Lifting sanctions: Harris supported lifting sanctions, acknowledging their detrimental impact on the Iranian people. She believed that economic pressure was not the best way to achieve foreign policy objectives.
• Building a new framework for dialogue: Harris emphasized the importance of engagement and communication, arguing that the US should work with allies to address Iran's concerns and find common ground.

The Iranian American Perspective:

While the election was a close contest, with Trump securing a significant number of votes from Iranian Americans, the majority of this community favored Harris. Factors contributing to this preference included:

• Economic hardship: The Trump administration's sanctions had a devastating impact on Iranian American businesses and families, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
• Human rights concerns: Harris's focus on human rights resonated with Iranian Americans who were concerned about the Iranian government's record on civil liberties.
• Hope for a more peaceful future: Harris's promise of diplomacy and dialogue offered hope for a less confrontational US-Iran relationship, appealing to many Iranians who desired a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions.

The Aftermath:

Following Trump's defeat, the Biden administration took steps to re-engage with Iran, including a return to the JCPOA. While negotiations have been slow and fraught with challenges, this shift in policy has offered a ray of hope for many Iranians.

Looking Forward:

The 2020 election highlighted the significant role that Iranian Americans play in US politics. Their vote, driven by economic hardship, human rights concerns, and a desire for peace, has the potential to influence the direction of US foreign policy toward Iran in the years to come. It remains to be seen whether the Biden administration can successfully navigate the complex challenges of US-Iran relations and deliver on the promises made to this community.