The recent US cyber-attack on Iran, in retaliation for the downing of its drone, raises new questions for the militarization of cyberspace: what are the norms governing cyber war? What are the implications for international cooperation on the global Internet? How can governments stop cyber-attacks from escalating in unpredictable ways? These matters greatly concern the US and China.

Starting in May, the White House hopes to extinguish Iran’s oil exports. However, any destabilization may prove counter-productive and cause long-term damage to the United States, the region, and global prospects.

The US withdrawal will distance it from its European allies and cause instability in the Middle East.

Formal withdrawal will enhance the image of the U.S. as a rule-breaker amongst the international community.

What is going on in Iran? Iran's protests reflect intense debate about new economic policies and priorities, particularly trade-offs between economic development, political consolidation and regional prestige. Escalation suggests U.S. efforts at regime change, as Iran is increasingly looking toward the east and development opportunities with China.

Trump's approach on Iran will create uncertainty and open new rifts in trans-Atlantic relations.

Trump’s new strategy might have little legal effect on the Iran nuclear deal, but it will undermine it politically, and exacerbate many regional problems.

The election of Hassan Rouhani could serve as a turning point for Iran both domestically and internationally. With a moderate politician leading this important nation, the time for the U.S and China to engage and reintegrate Iran into the international system is now; otherwise, the Middle East will continue to be plagued by violence.

If the US should abandon or violate the Iranian nuclear accord, an agreement reached after years of negotiation and with consent of European allies, the results would only be negative for the US in terms of its international image, moral high ground and Trump’s start on diplomatic front. Such a move would signal to the world that the US cannot be trusted.

The Iranian nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Cooperation Plan of Action, is attributable to foreign policy adjustments by both the US and Iran, and the decision to meet each other half way.