I had the honor of marching with the peace council during this year’s Edgartown Fourth of July Parade. The spectacular summer weather perfectly matched the warmth and sunny disposition of the crowd. I was particularly proud when I spotted my husband Siamak standing in front of The Carnegie on North Water street holding a sign that read: “Peace. No War with Iran.” Beside him were our good friends Rev. Thomas Pike and his wife Lys, also holding signs for peace and the environment.

While taking in the dazzling sights and sounds, I felt a tinge of sadness this year — and outrage. Siamak was born in Iran and came to America as a young man for his medical education. We have raised three children in Pittsburgh and on Chappaquiddick, but have always maintained a strong connection to my husband’s native country. And this Independence Day, Trump’s lack of diplomacy with Iran weighs heavily on our hearts.

On the Fourth of July, one’s thoughts tend to focus on the meaning of the holiday and the state of the country. This year, we have few reasons to feel positive about the direction of the country under Trump. Yes, U.S.-Iran relations have been strained for decades, and both countries bear responsibility for the lack of understanding that exists today. Just as Trump does not represent the views of all Americans, the leadership in Iran does not speak for all of its people.

However, the stranglehold of the Trump administration’s crippling sanctions is pushing Iranians to the brink. When people are desperate, they respond by taking extreme action. Case in point: the news this week that Iran’s leadership has decided to breach the limit of uranium enrichment established in the 2015 nuclear deal under the Obama presidency. This is what results from the administration’s arrogant and short-sighted foreign policy.

The time is now to work toward a solution and find a compromise. Trump’s approach, pushed by Bolton and Pompeo, seems to lead in only one direction — toward military action and more human suffering in the Middle East.

Joan Adibi

Chappaquiddick