The story: As Europe struggles with soaring natural gas prices amid a deepening energy crisis, Iran is presenting itself as key to resolving the continent’s shortages—including by reducing reliance on Russia. Encouraged by recent comments from Petroleum Minister Javad Owji, Iranian energy experts now believe the Islamic Republic can use its huge natural gas reserves as a bargaining chip in the stalled negotiations to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

The coverage: Europeans have in recent weeks been warned by the media to expect significantly higher natural gas bills in October amid a supply shortage that has triggered rising prices. This has fueled fears of an energy crisis that could get worse as temperatures continue to drop...