Why it matters:
The remarks come as backchannel diplomacy between Iran and the U.S. inches forward amid heightened regional tensions and stalled nuclear negotiations.
Iran's recent position affirms its insistence on exercising its NPT rights, specifically uranium enrichment and sanctions removal, without compromise.
The big picture:
Talks between Iran and the U.S., though indirect, are seen as a potential pathway toward reviving stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.
However, progress has been limited over the U.S. threats and contradictory statements from U.S. officials.
What he's saying:
“We have already responded to the unreasonable demands,” Araghchi told reporters on the sidelines of a memorial ceremony in Tehran for Iranian Late Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. “These unusual statements don’t help move the talks forward," Iran's FM said.
“Our position is crystal clear: uranium enrichment will continue, with or without agreement,” he added.
“If transparency is desired regarding our peaceful program, we are ready. But sanctions imposed based on unfounded claims about our nuclear program must be lifted.”
On the possibility of joining the next round of talks: “We are still evaluating whether the upcoming negotiations will be beneficial. While we will confront excessive demands, we have never walked away from diplomacy.”
Go deeper:
Araghchi: We Have Not Reached an Agreement on the Date of Talks With U.S.
Hossein Vaez
