Iran tensions loom over U.S. peace push in Washington

U.S.-backed effort to relaunch Middle East diplomacy opened here this week under the shadow of a possible new conflict with Iran, as military deployments and rising rhetoric eclipsed talk of peace.

The initiative, known as the Board of Peace, follows understandings reached at Sharm el-Sheikh and its formal presentation in Davos. About twenty countries are participating, with the European Commission and Italy attending as observers. Several major European powers have stayed away, criticising the forum’s closed format. The absence of Palestinian representatives has further weakened its credibility, particularly on Gaza’s future.

Outside the meeting rooms, the strategic picture is deteriorating.

The United States has assembled its largest air deployment in the Middle East since 2003, positioning forces that could support military action if ordered. Officials stress that no decision has been made. Iran has responded with Gulf exercises, including joint drills with Russian units, signalling both readiness and alignment.

At the same time, separate talks in Geneva between the United States, Russia and Ukraine continue in search of a ceasefire deal. Diplomats cite incremental progress but acknowledge that territorial questions and security guarantees remain unresolved.

Security concerns persist across the region. Earlier this year, the United States transferred thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq to prevent potential mass escapes, underscoring the fragile environment in which the new peace initiative is unfolding.

Washington is also pressing NATO allies on a possible reorganisation that could eventually reshape Western deployments in Iraq.

For now, diplomacy and deterrence are advancing side by side. 

The Board of Peace was intended to chart a path toward regional stability. Instead, it finds itself operating at a moment when the balance could shift abruptly toward open confrontation.