The fact that Mr. Obama has offered a new relationship with Iran’s rulers could make it harder for the government to discredit such contacts. After a decent interval, the White House should take a serious look at the idea of opening an “interests section” in Tehran to allow direct contact with the Iranian people. If the government rejects the offer, it would only highlight its own insecurity. There is no question that the events of the last few weeks have complicated Mr. Obama’s offer to negotiate with Iran. Mr. Obama’s critics are already charging that talks will legitimize Tehran’s rulers and reward them for their abuses. But the United States and its allies deal with unelected and unsavory leaders all the time.
