By Ahmed Al-Remeh
With the official commencement of Donald Trump’s presidency, concerns and speculation have surged in Iran regarding his potential policies toward Tehran. Iranian newspapers have devoted significant coverage to this development, offering a variety of analyses alongside discussions of the comprehensive cooperation agreement between Iran and Russia, clandestine meetings with Turkey, and the broader implications for the Syrian crisis. Press coverage has reflected a sense of uncertainty and apprehension in Iran’s foreign policy amid growing international pressures.
The daily Ham Mihan addressed the start of Trump’s term under the headline “A Different Beginning,” noting that his Middle East policies could lead to substantial shifts in the region’s dynamics. The publication emphasized the need for a unified internal strategy to confront forthcoming challenges.
Meanwhile, Setareh Sobh featured the headline “Trump Has Arrived,” underlining growing concerns about his return and its potential ramifications for Iran. The article stressed the importance of strategic preparedness to counter anticipated economic and political pressures. In a related piece, titled “The Consequences of Trump’s Return,” the newspaper examined the impact on Iran’s economy and foreign policy, advocating for a cautious diplomatic approach to avoid further crises.
Shargh highlighted the role of hardliners in both countries in obstructing potential negotiations, warning that the absence of constructive dialogue could escalate tensions. An article titled “In the Current Circumstances, Negotiation is the Best Option” argued that diplomatic engagement remains the most prudent course to avert further hostilities.
Etemad characterized Trump as “The Unexpected Player” in the geopolitical chessboard of the Middle East, cautioning against rash decisions and stressing the importance of rebuilding trust between Iran and the West. The article, titled “The New Guest’s Game on the Middle East Chessboard,” was followed by another piece, “The High Wall of Distrust,” which analyzed the longstanding animosity between Iran and the U.S. and called for a comprehensive reassessment of Iran’s diplomatic strategies.
In an alternative perspective, Donya-e-Eqtesad suggested that Trump’s business-oriented mindset might open avenues for economic agreements with Iran. An article titled “Why Trump’s Second Term Could Be an Opportunity” explored potential economic cooperation. Another piece, “The Russian-Iranian Gift for Trump’s Inauguration,” described the Iran-Russia comprehensive agreement as a strategic move that could enhance Iran’s regional standing.
Arman Melli framed Trump’s presidency as an opportunity for Iran to recalibrate its regional policies and strengthen its strategic positioning, with an article titled “A New Opportunity for Iran.”
Conversely, Arman Emrooz delved into secret diplomatic engagements between Iranian and Turkish officials, portraying them as efforts to bolster regional alliances despite existing challenges. The article was headlined “Behind the Scenes of Iran-Turkey Meetings.”
Resalat analyzed the Iran-Russia agreement under the title “A New Dynamic in Iran-Russia Relations,” describing it as a strategic measure to reduce Iran’s dependence on Western powers and enhance its influence regionally and internationally.
The publication Farheekhtegan explored Israel’s stance on Iran, questioning whether recent developments have benefited or harmed Israeli interests. The article, “Has the Zionist Entity Gained or Lost?” examined Israel’s position in light of shifting geopolitical realities.
Overall, Iranian media coverage underscores the government’s deep concerns about Trump’s potential policies. His return to power has introduced new complexities to the region, heightening pressures on Iran. In response, Tehran is working to strengthen ties with Russia and Turkey while seeking to leverage regional opportunities. However, the underlying challenges in Iran’s foreign policy persist, necessitating a comprehensive strategic reassessment.
