Iran has declared its readiness to engage in nuclear talks with the United States, but only if Washington takes significant steps to rebuild trust and acknowledges Iran’s rights under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). This announcement comes ahead of a crucial meeting between Iranian officials and the E3 nations (Britain, France, and Germany), joined by the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas. The discussions mark the first such meeting since a 12-day conflict in June involving Israel and Iran, which also saw US B-52 bombers targeting nuclear-related facilities in Iran.
Iran’s Stance on Negotiations
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi outlined Tehran’s core principles for any talks with the US, emphasizing the absolute lack of trust in Washington. He stated there is “no room for hidden agendas such as military action,” though Iran remains prepared for all scenarios. Key conditions include respecting Iran’s NPT rights, including the right to enrich uranium for legitimate needs, and the lifting of economic sanctions.
Another deputy foreign minister, Majid Takht-e Ravanchi, will represent Iran at the Istanbul talks.
Uranium Enrichment and Show of Strength
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed that Iran would not cease uranium enrichment, a right he considers fundamental to the Iranian people. Prior to the June conflict, Iran was enriching uranium up to 60%, a level close to weapons-grade. Araghchi asserted that the Istanbul talks are vital to underscore Iran’s unwavering position to the European parties.
He also reiterated Iran’s willingness to advance its peaceful nuclear program within a logical framework and build trust with concerned nations, provided its right to peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment, is respected.
High Stakes and Warnings
European leaders have hinted at triggering a “snapback” mechanism from the 2015 nuclear deal, which would reimpose sanctions if Iran does not comply with the agreement’s terms. The US withdrew from this deal in 2018.
Iranian officials have cautioned that reimposed sanctions could lead Tehran to withdraw from key non-proliferation agreements. Araghchi previously accused the E3 nations of hypocrisy, alleging they failed to uphold their 2015 deal obligations while supporting Israel’s recent strikes on Iran.
Following the June conflict, Iran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA reported in May that Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium had grown significantly, a major concern for Western nations.