Why it matters:
A potential breakthrough in indirect talks with the U.S. could ease years of nuclear deadlock and economic pressure. Araghchi’s remarks suggest Tehran is strategically positioning itself for renewed diplomacy without backing down from its core principles.
The big picture:
The future of Iran-U.S. nuclear diplomacy has been uncertain since the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA under former U.S. President Trump's first term in office.
Araghchi’s comments reflect a broader Iranian strategy of principled talks, while signaling to the West that Tehran remains open to pragmatic solutions, provided its core demands, such as the lifting of primary sanctions and recognition of enrichment rights, are met.
What he's saying:
“Indirect negotiations are nothing strange. They are common in international relations,” Araghchi said during a visit to the Tehran International Book Fair.
“Some Westerners compare Iranian negotiation style to market haggling. But it’s just perseverance in defending our rights.”
“We hear contradictory statements from Washington and Trump himself. But despite the complexities and risks of indirect talks, a deal remains possible.”
“Our position is firm: We defend the Iranian people's rights, including the right to enrich uranium. We will not compromise on that.”
“We don’t object to the presence of U.S. companies in Iran. But it’s the U.S. primary sanctions that prevent it. If a deal is reached, those sanctions must go.”
Key points:
- Indirect diplomacy, while complicated and slow, is not unusual and can be effective.
- The Iranian negotiating stance remains rooted in the defense of national rights, including nuclear enrichment.
- Tehran blames U.S. sanctions, especially the primary ones, for blocking economic engagement.
- A potential agreement would require the U.S. to lift all sanctions, enabling American firms to reenter the Iranian market.
Go deeper:
Araghchi’s remarks come amid broader regional shifts and renewed international attention on Iran’s nuclear posture. Backchannel diplomacy and regional mediation, by Oman and possibly Qatar, could pave the way for renewed engagement.
The comments also align with Tehran’s pattern of signaling flexibility while publicly reinforcing its core red lines.
Hossein Vaez
