Iran Maintains Stance as US Deepens Insight into Tehran’s Nuclear Agenda: FM Araghchi

Araghchi conveyed his statements after the conclusion of the fifth session of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington, which extended over three hours in Rome on Friday. The discussions were facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi.

Iran’s chief negotiator characterized the recent discussions as one of the most professional rounds they have conducted, reiterating the Islamic Republic of Iran’s clear stance and unwavering commitment to its positions and principles during the negotiations.

Araghchi stated that the American side has achieved a “better, clearer, and more precise understanding” of their positions.

Ahead of his journey to Rome, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s determination to maintain its uranium enrichment program. He emphasized that an agreement would be unattainable if the United States persists in demanding the complete elimination of Iran’s legitimate right to enrichment.

Araghchi expressed on X that the criteria for reaching an agreement are straightforward, stating that “Zero nuclear weapons equals having a deal, while zero enrichment equals not having a deal.”

Following the conclusion of the fifth round of negotiations, he announced that both parties have consented to forward the proposals and ideas exchanged during the discussions to their respective capitals for further deliberation.

The Iranian Foreign Minister stated that his Omani counterpart, acting as a mediator, was actively engaged in finding solutions to overcome current obstacles and facilitate progress.

Iran has announced its intention to evaluate new solutions and proposals, which may offer assistance, all while adhering to its established principles and positions.

He added that both parties are anticipated to share their perspectives on the proposals and solutions, following which the next round of negotiations will be arranged.

Araghchi conveyed optimism that the parties would enter into more detailed discussions in the upcoming round, contingent upon the solutions being deliberated in the respective capitals.

As a result, it can be stated that the matter of indirect discussions remains unresolved and will proceed further.

**’A Significant Milestone’**

He remarked that the negotiations are “more complex” than what could be resolved in just a few sessions. However, he emphasized that being on a reasonable path at this point is regarded as an achievement.

The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed optimism that all parties involved would reach solutions fostering progress in upcoming sessions, citing a clearer comprehension of Tehran’s stance.

Araghchi stated, “We have not reached that point yet; however, we remain optimistic.”

He expressed optimism about potential progress, citing the solutions put forward by Oman.

As in past discussions, Iranian Foreign Minister and Trump’s regional envoy, Steve Witkoff, spearheaded the negotiating delegations during the talks held in Rome.

Since April, Tehran and Washington have engaged in four rounds of indirect discussions in Rome and Muscat concerning Iran’s nuclear program. The talks have been marked by frequent changes in U.S. positions, leading Iranian officials to express criticism over what they describe as “contradictory” statements from their American counterparts.