Why it matters:
The stalled nuclear talks with the U.S. faced Iran's reactions. Tehran’s push for European involvement signals a diplomatic pivot and a reminder that the window for compromise may be narrowing.
The big picture:
Iran has consistently said it supports diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA), but insists its peaceful nuclear rights are non-negotiable. Talks have hit roadblocks, particularly after the U.S. Defence Secretary's warning to Iran, and disagreements over issues unrelated to nuclear policy. Iran blames the collapse of some scheduled meetings on external factors, such as the cancellation of a planned summit in Rome.
What he's saying:
Ismail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, responded to a question from an Iran Press reporter regarding the dismissal of Mike Waltz from his position as U.S. National Security Advisor, who was reportedly attempting to impose Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies on the U.S. nuclear negotiating team with Iran, said:
“Changes within the U.S. decision-making system concerning the negotiations are an internal matter for that country. What matters to us is the behavior and positions the United States adopts at the negotiating table.”
“We invite France and other European countries to play a constructive role in the negotiations,” Baghaei told reporters in his weekly press briefing. He said, "Iran is committed to continuing dialogue and the diplomatic process. The framework for our indirect talks with the U.S. is unchangeable." "Peaceful use of nuclear energy is an inalienable right of the Iranian people, rooted in international law,” he added. On recent U.S. comments pushing for total dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program, Baghaei said: "This demand is unacceptable. We do not negotiate in public or media spaces."
Baghaei on Iran’s 'Plan B' if Nuclear Talks Fail, said: “In my view, the ultimate goal is entirely clear, our objective is to safeguard the interests of our nation. We aim to resolve the nuclear issue and lift sanctions, and there are various approaches available to achieve that.”
He said, "Mixed and contradictory messages from American officials are not helpful,” Baghaei noted.
On the Iran-Russia Strategic Partnership Treaty, Baghaei said the treaty is moving forward swiftly.
"The bill to approve this agreement was submitted by the Foreign Ministry to the presidency some time ago. It is undergoing the standard legal procedures, and I believe it was sent to the parliament last week".
On the Snapback Mechanism, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman said: "We have always stated there is no legal or legitimate basis for triggering the snapback mechanism, as Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful. The attempts by some parties to misuse this tool or exploit their positions at the UN Security Council for leverage in negotiations are unacceptable to us, and such actions will also have consequences for those parties."
On a Potential Israeli Attack, Baghaei stressed: "If Israel initiates any aggression or reckless action, Iran's armed forces will respond with full force and utmost decisiveness. Let there be no doubt about that."
Key points
- Recent delays in talks were proposed by Oman, a mediator, and Iran is awaiting coordination on new timing and location.
- Iran remains ready to negotiate with all JCPOA parties.
- Iran dismissed accusations of involvement in proxy conflicts, asserting Yemen’s independence and labeling Israel as the only true destabilizing force in the region.
Go deeper:
Iran’s diplomatic activity continues, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently concluding talks in Pakistan and preparing for a trip to India. The agenda includes regional coordination, especially on Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, as Tehran tries to maintain regional influence while navigating global negotiations.
Hossein Vaez
