Did Iran win the war?

In this episode of The Guardian Today, host Nosheen Iqbal examines whether Iran has emerged victorious from a recent conflict, particularly in the wake of the immense public display of support at Ayatollah Khamenei's funeral. The funeral attracted crowds numbering in the hundreds of thousands, signaling the regime's apparent strength despite a bitterly divided nation during Khamenei's reign, which saw harsh crackdowns on dissent.

Patrick Winter, The Guardian's diplomatic editor, reports from Tehran, highlighting the complex emotions present among the public, combining grief and a desire for vengeance, particularly towards perceived U.S. adversaries. He discusses the strategic implications of the war and the ongoing power struggles within Iran's political landscape. The episode also features insights from Robert Malley, a former lead negotiator on the Iran nuclear deal, who discusses the outlines of a new potential agreement that involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on both nations.

Malley emphasizes the lack of substantial resolution regarding nuclear issues and suggests a shift in the balance of power that could lead Iran to adopt a tougher stance in negotiations. He cautions against characterizing the situation in terms of clear victories or defeats, noting the immense suffering both countries have endured due to the conflict. The episode concludes with reflections on the long-term effects this war will have on U.S.-Iran relations and the geopolitical landscape.