Iran Announces Potential Nuclear Deal Negotiations with US Could Begin Soon
Iran has indicated that negotiations with the United States over a new nuclear agreement could commence in the coming days, as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent a potential military confrontation between the two nations. According to reports from Iran's semi-official Fars news service, President Masoud Pezeshkian has directed the initiation of talks with Washington "within the framework of the nuclear issue." This development follows increasing diplomatic activity across the Middle East aimed at de-escalating tensions.
Diplomatic Channels Activated Through Regional Partners
Multiple Middle Eastern countries are reportedly acting as intermediaries between Tehran and Washington, according to Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry. "The Islamic Republic is pursuing diplomatic channels through several regional partners," Baghaei stated, though he did not specify which nations are involved. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has engaged in discussions with counterparts from Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates since Friday, highlighting the extensive regional diplomatic push underway.
Potential negotiations could involve senior officials from both countries, including US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as reported by the Tasnim news service. Araghchi emphasized Iran's readiness for diplomacy while cautioning against pressure tactics. "We're ready for diplomacy, but they must understand that diplomacy is not compatible with threats, intimidation or pressure," he said on Iranian state television. "We will remain steadfast on this path and hope to see its results soon."
Washington Maintains Military Pressure Amid Negotiation Prospects
The diplomatic developments occur against a backdrop of continued military pressure from the United States. President Donald Trump has warned of potential military action if Iran fails to reach an agreement to curb its nuclear program. American naval assets have been deployed toward Iran, with Trump noting on Sunday they were "a couple of days" away, even as Gulf allies continue efforts to facilitate a deal.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning on Sunday, stating that any attack on Iran could trigger a "regional war." Tehran has previously threatened retaliation against Israel and US bases in the region, adding complexity to the diplomatic landscape.
Nuclear Program Remains Central Point of Contention
Trump has repeatedly asserted that Iran's nuclear program was "obliterated" following airstrikes by Israel, later joined by the US, in June. However, Tehran restricted international inspectors' access to certain nuclear sites after the conflict, creating uncertainty about its stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium.
According to Iran's semi-official Tasnim News Agency, while reports suggest talks could begin soon, the details of potential negotiations have not yet been finalized. "Once the overall framework and structure of the talks take shape, subsequent stages as well as further details will be finalised," Tasnim reported, citing informed sources. The agency noted that discussions about negotiations are ongoing but no concrete timeline has been established for their commencement.
Sanctions Relief Emerges as Tehran's Core Priority
Esmail Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry, emphasized that Tehran is carefully reviewing the structure of any potential negotiations with Washington. "Sanctions relief is a core priority," Baqaei stated, according to Tasnim. He added that Iran's approach focuses on lifting sanctions and safeguarding national interests.
Baqaei also addressed what Iran perceives as misuse of the nuclear issue, stating it has long been used as justification to impose pressure and conflict on the country. He indicated Tehran's willingness to offer confidence-building measures regarding the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, but expects the removal of what it describes as "unjust sanctions" in return.
The diplomatic maneuvering represents a critical juncture in US-Iran relations, with regional stability hanging in the balance as both nations navigate complex negotiations while maintaining military postures. The involvement of multiple Middle Eastern mediators suggests a broader regional interest in preventing escalation and finding diplomatic solutions to the nuclear impasse.
