Araghchi: Doubts about Washington's seriousness, and we will not stop enrichment (50 chars)
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed deep skepticism about the United States' seriousness regarding engaging in genuine and productive negotiations with Tehran, following the latest round of talks hosted by Oman. These remarks come at a time of escalating tensions and military buildups in the region, casting a shadow over the future of diplomacy between the two countries.
A long road to building trust
In press statements following the meetings, Araqchi explained that his country would evaluate all signals and messages received from the American side before making any final decision regarding the continuation of negotiations. He noted that consultations were ongoing with other international powers, specifically China and Russia, to coordinate positions. Despite both sides describing the initial talks in Muscat as "positive," the Iranian minister emphasized that the road to rebuilding the lost trust between the two sides remained long and arduous, especially given the complex history of relations since Washington's unilateral withdrawal from the nuclear agreement.
Red lines and the nuclear program
Araghchi emphasized his country's unwavering stance on uranium enrichment, considering it a sovereign right that cannot be relinquished. He stated firmly that Iran "will not abandon enrichment even if war is imposed upon it," a clear indication of Tehran's rejection of the policy of maximum pressure or the threat of military force. Tehran insists on limiting negotiations to the nuclear issue only, refusing to include other matters it considers red lines.
Regional context and military buildup
These developments come amid a strengthening US military presence in the region, including the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and the reinforcement of regional bases. Through these moves, Washington seeks to pressure for a broader agreement that includes, in addition to the nuclear issue, limiting Iran's missile capabilities and halting Tehran's support for armed groups in the region. In response, Araqchi asserted that the military buildup "does not frighten" his country, adding: "We are a nation of diplomacy, and we are also a nation of war if necessary, but we do not seek war.".
Repercussions of the domestic and international scene
Domestically, the Iranian government faces numerous economic challenges as a result of ongoing international sanctions that are crippling the economy, coupled with internal tensions and complex human rights issues, most notably the case of activist Narges Mohammadi. Observers believe that the success or failure of these negotiations will not only affect Iran domestically, but will also have a direct impact on the stability of the entire Middle East region, global energy markets, and the future of regional conflicts.
For his part, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the talks as "a step forward," praising the role played by friendly governments in the region in bringing viewpoints closer. However, the gap remains wide between the American demands for a comprehensive agreement and the Iranian insistence on separating the tracks and lifting sanctions as a top priority.
