Iran: Agreement Possible If US Demonstrates Goodwill

• The primary goal for Iran remains the removal of extensive US sanctions: FM.
• Trump claims discussions will be “direct,” but Araqchi disagrees.
• Russia supports the possibility of new negotiations for a nuclear agreement.

On Tuesday, Iran’s foreign minister expressed optimism that a new nuclear agreement could be reached with the United States, should its longtime adversary demonstrate enough goodwill in the upcoming talks scheduled to begin in Oman on Saturday.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that Iran’s main objective continues to be the lifting of broad US sanctions, which have significantly impacted the Iranian economy since their reinstatement by President Donald Trump in 2018.

During a White House meeting on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—an outspoken opponent of Tehran—Trump announced that his administration would be willing to engage in discussions with Iran.

While Trump indicated these talks would be “direct,” Araqchi maintained that his discussions with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff would actually be “indirect.”

“We will not accept any negotiation format other than this,” Araqchi told state media. “In my opinion, the format of the negotiations is not the most critical element. What matters is whether the discussions are effective or not.”

“If the other side is sufficiently willing, a deal may be achievable… The ball is in America’s court,” he added.

In a press briefing on Monday, Trump expressed hope for a successful agreement with Tehran but cautioned of “great danger” for the Islamic Republic should the talks fall through.

“We are currently engaged with the Iranians, and we have a very important meeting scheduled for Saturday,” Trump told reporters.

This announcement from Trump coincided with Iran’s dismissal of direct negotiations aimed at establishing a new framework to limit its nuclear activities, labeling the proposal as fruitless.

Trump withdrew from the previous agreement in 2018, during his first term, leading to rampant speculation that Israel may consider attacking Iranian sites if a fresh agreement is not reached.

‘Great Danger’

Trump issued a firm warning to Tehran during his statements.

“If our negotiations with Iran fail, I believe Iran will be in significant danger, and I regret to say it will face serious peril, as they cannot possess a nuclear weapon,” he remarked.

In a recent interview with NBC, Trump escalated his rhetoric, stating, “If they don’t reach an agreement, there will be bombing.”

Meanwhile, China and Russia engaged in discussions with Iran in Moscow on Tuesday, leading to a positive response from the Kremlin regarding the anticipated negotiations.

Russia, a key ally of Iran, voiced approval for the potential new nuclear agreement to replace the deal that Trump unilaterally exited in 2018.

“We are aware that both direct and indirect communications are planned in Oman. This should be welcomed as it might contribute to reducing tensions surrounding Iran,” commented Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, expressing Moscow’s full support for the initiative.

China further called on the United States to cease its aggressive tactics and refrain from exerting excessive pressure, following Trump’s threats of military action against Iran if no deal is struck.

“As the nation that unilaterally walked away from the comprehensive agreement regarding Iran’s nuclear issue and contributed to the current situation, the United States must exhibit political sincerity and mutual respect,” stated Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry.

Lin added that Washington should engage in dialogue and consultation while stopping its misguided approach of applying force to exert undue pressure.