ALBAWABA - With tensions between the U.S. and Iran running high and a greater American naval presence in the Middle East, Iran has indicated a renewed readiness to discuss its nuclear ambitions with the United States, contingent on the lifting of economic sanctions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran is open to an agreement that would "guarantee the non-possession of nuclear weapons in exchange for the removal of sanctions." He emphasized Iran's preference for diplomacy, even amidst the current regional tensions.
In a post on the social media platform X, Araghchi also mentioned Iran's willingness to engage in dialogue with regional countries to bolster security and stability, suggesting Tehran's intent to strengthen its regional influence, concurrent with any possible discussions with Washington.
"No Ground for Negotiations at Present"
Araghchi, in Istanbul on Friday, expressed appreciation for Turkey's attempts to ease regional tensions. However, he pointed out that "there's no serious foundation for negotiations with the United States at present," due to the continued pressure and threats directed at Iran.
Speaking with CNN Türk, Araghchi made it clear that meaningful discussions would only be feasible after the hostile language subsided. During a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, he stated that Iran was prepared to restart nuclear talks with the U.S. "on equal footing," as long as the negotiations were equitable. He also underscored that Iran's defensive and missile capabilities were "non-negotiable."
The U.S. deadline remains unclear.
The comments followed President Donald Trump's announcement that he'd set a deadline for Iran to come to the negotiating table, though he didn't specify how long it was. From the Oval Office, Trump stated, "They want to make a deal," and emphasized that Tehran alone understood the timeframe. He added, "We hope for an agreement—if not, we’ll see what happens."
The United States has also increased its military footprint in the area, sending a naval strike group headed by the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier Trump called a "very powerful fleet."
Israeli officials are increasingly worried, according to reports from the Israeli press, that U.S. talks might zero in on Iran's nuclear ambitions while leaving its missile program untouched. They believe the missile program represents a clear and present danger, particularly after Iran fired off hundreds of ballistic missiles during the previous year's conflict, hitting both urban areas and military installations.
Furthermore, Israeli intelligence suggests that Tehran has already started to replenish its missile stockpile since the war's end. This development further complicates the situation in the region and could make future negotiations even more difficult.
