Iran’s foreign minister states the US approach shows no readiness for equal nuclear negotiations, accusing Washington of pursuing wartime goals through talks
DUBAI: Iran’s foreign minister declared on Sunday that Washington’s current approach shows no readiness for “equal and fair negotiations” regarding Tehran’s nuclear programme.
The statement came after US President Donald Trump hinted last week at potential discussions between the two nations.
This follows failed attempts to renew dialogue after Israel’s attack on Iran in June, which included US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The United States, its European allies and Israel accuse Tehran of using its nuclear programme as cover for weapons development.
Iran maintains its nuclear programme serves exclusively peaceful purposes.
Five rounds of indirect nuclear talks occurred between Tehran and Washington before the 12-day war.
Those negotiations faced obstacles including the issue of domestic uranium enrichment, which the US wants Iran to abandon.
“The US cannot expect to gain what it couldn’t in war through negotiations,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said during a Tehran conference titled “international law under assault.”
“Iran will always be prepared to engage in diplomacy, but not negotiations meant for dictation,” he added.
Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh accused Washington of pursuing wartime goals with “negotiations as a show” during the same conference. – Reuters
