Iran reiterated its readiness to return to the negotiating table regarding its nuclear program, but stipulated that the talks must be "fair and equitable," while simultaneously emphasizing that its defense capabilities, particularly its missile program, are not and will not be subject to negotiation. This stance was expressed by an Iranian official during a press conference with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, reflecting Tehran's adherence to its principled positions on one of the most sensitive issues on the international stage.
Historical background and context of negotiations
These statements come amid a months-long stalemate in nuclear talks. The roots of the current crisis trace back to 2018 when the United States, under former President Donald Trump, unilaterally withdrew from the landmark nuclear agreement known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), signed in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 group of world powers. The agreement aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. Following the US withdrawal, Washington reimposed harsh sanctions, prompting Tehran to gradually roll back its commitments under the agreement, including increasing its uranium enrichment levels.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Domestically , the negotiations directly impact the Iranian economy, which is suffering under the weight of sanctions. Any diplomatic progress offers hope for easing economic pressures and improving living conditions for citizens. Regionally , neighboring countries, particularly the Gulf states and Israel, are closely monitoring developments in the Iranian nuclear program and consider it a source of concern. These countries also view Iran's ballistic missile program as a direct threat to their security, making Tehran's firm refusal to negotiate on it a key point of contention that further complicates the regional landscape.
The international dimension and the American position
Internationally, Western powers, led by the United States and the European Union, are seeking to revive the agreement to ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran consistently denies. In response, an Iranian official asserted that “no meetings are scheduled at this stage with the United States,” emphasizing that “Iran’s defense capabilities and missiles will never be subject to negotiation, as the security of the Iranian people is a private matter that concerns no one else.” This condition represents a major obstacle to any future negotiations, as Washington and its allies insist on including Tehran’s missile program and regional influence in any new agreement, a demand Iran categorically rejects, thus perpetuating a state of stalemate and cautious anticipation.
