A power struggle within Iran is creating uncertainty about who truly governs the nation, complicating international negotiations. The current situation features a moderate presidential administration alongside Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed the role of Supreme Leader following the death of his father. Khamenei is characterized as a hardliner with close ties to the Revolutionary Guard, representing a more ideological and inflexible faction. This division explains difficulties experienced by the Trump administration in advancing talks with Iran. An expert, Jonathan Piron, a historian specializing in Iran, highlights this internal conflict. The shift in leadership occurred amid escalating tensions, specifically coinciding with the start of a hypothetical conflict between Israel and the United States against Iran in February 2026. The dual power structure poses a significant challenge to understanding Iranian decision-making.