Iranian Foreign Minister: US must drop unrealistic demands

Iran may continue indirect nuclear talks if the US shows seriousness, says FM Araghchi, who calls on Washington to drop what he describes as its “unrealistic demands".

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States will proceed if Tehran concludes that Washington possesses the “necessary seriousness" to reach a negotiated resolution. Speaking at a press conference in Tehran and quoted by the Xinhua news agency, Araghchi elaborated on Friday’s indirect talks between Iranian and US delegations held in Muscat, Oman. 

He noted that while there are signs the United States is serious about reaching a deal, there are also indications that cast doubt on its determination. He cited the continuation of sanctions and military movements in the West Asia region as causes for concern, questioning the extent of US readiness and commitment. Iran will continue to monitor and assess all these indicators, Araghchi said, emphasizing that indirect dialogue does not stand in the way of achieving an agreement.

However, he pointed to issues within the content of the talks, such as what he described as “excessive and unrealistic" US demands and unreasonable claims, as the true obstacles to progress. Araghchi said that if the US demonstrates a respectful and fair approach based on mutual interests, an agreement would be possible. He reaffirmed Iran’s position that it will not renounce its right to develop and utilize peaceful nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment. He stated that success in the negotiations will depend on the other side taking this matter seriously.

Araghchi also made clear that Iran’s missile program has never been and will not be discussed in the talks with the United States, affirming that the negotiations will remain focused solely on the nuclear issue. (Ed note: So who's got "hand"? It certainly is not President Trump's boys, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.) (Read More)