Amid air strikes and stalled negotiations, the US and Iran are close to breaking point

The upcoming change of guards in Tehran may also muddy the waters. “The victory of Ibrahim Raisi, a hard-line cleric who opposes negotiations with the United States, in Iran this month has added to the sense of urgency that hovers around the talks,” my colleagues explained. “My chief who will replace President Hassan Rouhani, a moderate politician, will take office in August.”