Iran War Is Not Over, Nuclear Program Remains Core Issue: Col. Abbas Dahouk
The US and Iran are close to finalizing a preliminary deal that would pause the war for 60 days, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and initiate negotiations over the nuclear issue.
However, this has raised concerns over ending hostilities without reaching a comprehensive agreement that resolves the root causes of the conflict, particularly Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its support for regional proxies.
Risk of Renewed Conflict
Postponing discussions on the most contentious sticking points has raised questions about the likelihood of a return to war if these core issues remain unresolved after the 60-day period.
In this context, the Former Senior Military Advisor to US Department of State, Colonel (Ret.) Abbas Dahouk, noted that war has not ended and could resume at any point.
“Definitely the war is not over. This is a pause. I think this a pause to give diplomacy and negotiations to sign a deal or a memorandum of understanding a chance,” he told Al-Arabiya.
Sticking Points
Col. Dahouk said that one of the core requirements for this preliminary deal is a “performance-based agreement,” which requires Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for traffic without harassment.
He also pointed out that Iran’s nuclear program remains a central issue in the negotiations. US President Donald Trump wants not only to dismantle Tehran’s stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, but to eliminate the country’s entire nuclear infrastructure.
“This is the final deal and the ultimate goal for Trump,” Col. Dahouk said. “If all these were not agreed on within 60 days, the US President could be striking again,” he added.
Resuming Strikes
The former senior military advisor explained that Trump held off on planned strikes against Iran a few days ago; however, he could still launch those strikes after 60 days if a final agreement fails to materialize.
“So, I think war is not over. This is perhaps just a break for all parties to figure out the path forward based on their political interests,” Col. Dahouk stated.
