Iran has declared its willingness to restart nuclear negotiations with the United States, provided Washington approaches Tehran with 'dignity and respect'. The significant diplomatic overture was made by Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, during an exclusive discussion in Tehran.
Diplomatic Path Remains Open
Speaking at a security conference in the Iranian capital, Araghchi emphasised that only diplomacy provides a viable solution to the ongoing nuclear dispute. He revealed that fresh requests have arrived through intermediaries to reopen negotiations with the Trump administration, though he maintained Iran's position of strength following recent conflicts.
The minister firmly stated that Iran possesses an inalienable right to enrich uranium domestically – the central issue that caused previous talks to reach an impasse. This declaration comes despite the collapse of earlier negotiations after a series of attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Aftermath of Nuclear Site Attacks
The previous five rounds of discussions between the US and Iran ended abruptly on 12 June following coordinated Israeli-American attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. The 12-day conflict concluded with President Donald Trump claiming the sites had been obliterated, though Iranian officials dispute this assessment.
Araghchi insisted that Iran has emerged stronger both militarily and psychologically from the confrontation. Our defence capabilities are much stronger than before 13 or 14 June of this year, he asserted, adding that all damaged facilities would be rebuilt and nuclear technology preserved.
The Consortium Proposal: A Lost Opportunity?
Iranian officials disclosed they had nearly reached a breakthrough solution during previous negotiations through a proposed Iran-based consortium with American involvement for uranium enrichment. This arrangement would have allowed both nations to claim victory – Iran maintaining domestic enrichment while the US gained confidence in the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme.
The proposal, which logically implied US nuclear scientists operating within Iran, was reportedly agreed upon three times with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff before collapsing due to what Iranian officials describe as 'spoilers in Washington'. Although the consortium offer is currently off the table, sources suggest it could be revived if proper negotiations resume.
While President Trump claimed last week that he had received messages indicating Iran's interest in renewed talks, Iranian officials privately state they await coherent offers from Washington, either directly or through regional mediators including Qatar, Egypt, Oman and Saudi Arabia.
Araghchi concluded with a powerful message: If they speak to the Iranian people with the language of dignity and respect, they will receive a response in the same language. The diplomatic door remains open, but the key, according to Tehran, lies in mutual respect and adherence to diplomatic principles.
