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On Tuesday, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, indicated that there was potential for a new nuclear deal between Iran and the United States if Washington showed enough goodwill during upcoming negotiations. The talks are set to begin on Saturday in Oman, and while the format of the discussions remains a point of contention, Araghchi emphasized that the most important factor would be the effectiveness of the talks, rather than the nature of the negotiation process.
Since the United States reimposed sanctions on Iran in 2018 under President Donald Trump, the Iranian economy has suffered significant damage. Lifting these sanctions remains Iran’s principal goal in the talks, and Araghchi made it clear that Iran would not accept direct negotiations with the United States, despite President Trump’s offer to engage in such discussions. Iran’s stance remains focused on “indirect” negotiations, which will take place between Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Trump’s Offer and Iran’s Rejection of Direct Talks
The news of a potential new deal came after a meeting between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, where Trump made a surprise announcement. He expressed his hope for direct negotiations with Tehran, which he described as a way to reach a deal on Iran’s nuclear program. However, Iran quickly dismissed the idea of direct negotiations, calling such talks pointless.
Araghchi, in his comments to the press, made it clear that Iran would not engage in any direct discussions with the United States. “We will not accept any other form of negotiation,” he declared. Despite this, Araghchi left the door open for indirect talks, reiterating that a deal could still be achieved if the US demonstrated the necessary willingness.
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“We are ready to negotiate, but it’s up to the United States to show that they are serious,” Araghchi added, framing the situation as one where “the ball is in America’s court.” His remarks set the tone for the upcoming negotiations, signaling that Tehran’s willingness to engage in talks depends on the US taking steps toward de-escalation.
Trump’s Stark Warning to Tehran
In a statement following his meeting with Netanyahu, President Trump reiterated his firm stance on Iran, warning that the Islamic republic would face “great danger” if talks fail. He expressed hope for successful negotiations, but also underscored that failure would have dire consequences for Tehran.
“We’re dealing with the Iranians, we have a very big meeting on Saturday,” Trump said. “And if the talks aren’t successful… Iran’s going to be in great danger.” Trump’s words carry significant weight, considering his earlier comments about potential military action if the negotiations do not result in an agreement.
During an NBC interview late last month, Trump was even more explicit in his warning, stating, “If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing.” These threats of military action have added an element of urgency to the talks, raising fears of potential escalation if diplomatic efforts falter.
Russia and China Support Diplomatic Efforts
As the diplomatic landscape shifts, Iran’s allies, Russia and China, have voiced their support for the upcoming negotiations. On Tuesday, Russia held consultations with Iran in Moscow, and Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed support for the new round of talks in Oman, calling them a positive development for de-escalating tensions in the region.
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“We know that certain contacts — direct and indirect — are planned in Oman. And, of course, this can only be welcomed because it can lead to de-escalation of tensions around Iran,” Peskov said. Moscow’s backing of the talks underscores its interest in maintaining stability in the Middle East, as well as its support for Iran’s position in the ongoing nuclear dispute.
China, too, weighed in on the situation, urging the United States to refrain from using force or economic pressure to achieve its goals. A spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry called on Washington to demonstrate “political sincerity” and engage in constructive dialogue with Iran. “As the country that unilaterally withdrew from the comprehensive agreement on the Iran nuclear issue, the United States should show mutual respect,” the spokesperson said.
China’s comments reflect its broader concerns about the US’s aggressive foreign policy approach, which it views as counterproductive to resolving international conflicts.
Implications of the Ongoing Negotiations
As the talks in Oman approach, much is at stake for both Iran and the United States. For Iran, the lifting of sanctions is a matter of economic survival, while the United States aims to curtail Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The challenge remains finding common ground between the two countries, especially given the tense history and differing priorities.
While the US is pushing for direct engagement, Iran’s preference for indirect negotiations reflects its desire to maintain a degree of distance from what it sees as a history of US coercion and unilateralism. Both sides face significant pressure from their allies and adversaries, and the success or failure of these talks could reshape the dynamics of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy can overcome years of mistrust and hostility, or whether the situation will once again escalate into confrontation.
