Iran's HARD BALL w/TRUMP Larry Johnson

Daniel Davis Deep Dive Merch: Etsy store

Iran is increasingly confident and assertive in its dealings with the U.S., particularly under Donald Trump. Despite Trump’s history of hardline rhetoric and threats of military action, Iran is not showing fear or urgency to comply. In a recent Truth Social post, Trump claimed that both he and Putin agree Iran should not obtain nuclear weapons, and that Putin might help pressure Iran into compliance. However, former CIA analyst Larry Johnson argues that Iran has consistently said it does not want nuclear weapons, only peaceful nuclear energy for medical and civilian use — something allowed under international law.

What’s changed is the geopolitical landscape: 10 years ago, during the original JCPOA nuclear deal, Russia and China cooperated with the U.S. in pressuring Iran. Now, both countries distrust the U.S. and back Iran, having signed strategic agreements and participated in joint military exercises. Iran is also now part of alternative global alliances like BRICS and the Belt and Road Initiative, giving it more support and reducing its isolation.

Trump's inconsistent messaging and the U.S.’s history of withdrawing from the JCPOA have eroded trust. Iran no longer believes the U.S. can be relied on to uphold agreements, and their Supreme Leader has openly rejected new U.S. proposals, saying America “cannot do a damn thing.” Iran sees itself as justified in enriching uranium for peaceful purposes and has only increased enrichment to gain leverage against Western sanctions. Overall, the U.S. has lost influence, and Iran is leveraging new alliances to counter Western pressure.