Iran Says Willing to Hold Nuclear Talks, but Not ‘Under Pressure and intimidation’

Tehran Insists on Respect, Non-Interference

Iran has expressed its willingness to engage in nuclear talks, but has made it clear that it will not do so under pressure or intimidation. The Iranian government has emphasized the importance of respecting Iran’s sovereignty and refraining from interfering in its internal affairs.

Background of the Nuclear Dispute

Iran’s nuclear program has been a subject of international concern for several years. Western powers have accused Iran of developing nuclear weapons, while Iran has maintained that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. In 2015, Iran and six world powers reached a nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which placed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

US Withdrawal and Heightened Tensions

In 2018, the United States unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA and reimposed sanctions on Iran. This move has significantly escalated tensions between Iran and the US, and has led to concerns about the future of the nuclear deal. Iran has responded by gradually reducing its compliance with the JCPOA.

Iran’s Current Stance

Iran’s leaders have repeatedly stated that they are willing to engage in talks aimed at resolving the nuclear issue. However, they have also insisted that these talks must be held on an equal footing and that Iran will not accept any preconditions or ultimatums.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has emphasized that Iran will not negotiate under pressure. He has also said that Iran will not accept any restrictions on its nuclear program beyond those agreed to in the JCPOA.

International Response

The international community has welcomed Iran’s willingness to engage in talks, but has also urged Iran to fully comply with the JCPOA. The United States has said that it is open to talks with Iran, but has insisted that Iran must first return to full compliance with the nuclear deal.

The European Union has expressed its support for efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue, and has urged both Iran and the US to engage in dialogue.

Conclusion

The willingness of Iran to engage in nuclear talks is a positive step, but significant challenges remain. Iran has made it clear that it will not negotiate under pressure, and the US has insisted that Iran must first return to full compliance with the JCPOA. The international community will be watching closely to see if both sides can find a way to overcome these obstacles and reach a diplomatic solution.