Iran Open to Indirect Talks with US Amid Nuclear Deal Dispute
Tehran: Iran announced on Monday its willingness to engage in indirect negotiations with the United States following President Donald Trump’s renewed push for nuclear talks. However, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ruled out direct engagement unless Washington shifts its approach toward Iran.
Araghchi made it clear that Iran would not negotiate under pressure or threats, citing Trump’s continued implementation of the “maximum pressure” policy, which includes harsh economic sanctions. Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018, a deal that had previously limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
Key Developments:
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Iran is open to indirect talks but refuses direct negotiations unless the US changes its approach.
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Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy continues, seeking to isolate Iran economically.
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On March 7, Trump sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, proposing nuclear talks and warning of military consequences.
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Khamenei dismissed the outreach, saying US threats “will get them nowhere” and warning of reciprocal measures.
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Iranian officials claim diplomacy is still possible but will not happen under coercion.
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Iraq accused Iran of using forged Iraqi documents on oil tankers intercepted by US forces in the Gulf.
Geopolitical Context and Response:
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US envoy Steven Witkoff insists Trump’s goal is to avoid military conflict by building trust with Iran.
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The Swiss embassy in Tehran continues to serve as a communication channel between the two nations.
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The Muscat Process, a previous diplomatic initiative led by Oman, remains stalled.
While Iran has signaled a willingness to engage in indirect diplomacy, deep mistrust remains between Tehran and Washington. The continued US sanctions and threats of military action undermine prospects for progress. As both sides weigh their next moves, tensions over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional influence persist, keeping the risk of escalation high.
