Iran Calls Nuclear Talks ‘More Serious and Frank’ Amid US Demands
Iran’s indirect negotiations with the United States to revive the 2015 nuclear deal have become “much more serious and frank,” according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Speaking after the fourth round of talks in Oman’s capital, Muscat, Araghchi noted that discussions have shifted from general topics to more specific proposals.
“The talks are moving forward, but the issues are becoming more complicated,” Araghchi told Iran’s state-run IRIB TV. Both sides have agreed to continue the discussions, which aim to bring both nations back into full compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Rejection of US Demands
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian firmly rejected U.S. calls for Tehran to dismantle its nuclear infrastructure. “This is unacceptable. Iran will not relinquish its peaceful nuclear rights,” he declared, emphasizing that Iran’s nuclear program is intended for civilian purposes.
Pezeshkian referenced a religious decree from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which bans the development of nuclear weapons. “We are serious in the negotiations and seek an agreement. We hold talks because we want peace,” he added, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to regional peace and security.
US Stance Remains Firm
Ahead of the Muscat talks, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reiterated demands for Iran to completely dismantle its nuclear program, including facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that Iran should import enriched uranium instead of producing it domestically.
Iran insists that its nuclear activities are essential for “peaceful” purposes, such as producing radiopharmaceuticals and supporting applications in healthcare, agriculture, and industry.
Ongoing Negotiations
The latest round of talks in Muscat lasted about three hours and follows previous sessions on April 12 and 26, and in Rome on April 19. The ongoing negotiations reflect both nations’ efforts to ease tensions and potentially restore the nuclear deal.
