While U.S.-Iran negotiations proceed quietly on the surface, Washington is witnessing extraordinary behind-the-scenes maneuvering—like ducks gliding smoothly on water while paddling furiously beneath.

The national security adviser seemed at a loss. It fell to Michael Waltz to explain to handpicked members of his staff this ...

RONALD J. DEIBERT is Professor of Political Science and Director of the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto Munk School ...