Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has expressed skepticism towards the United States’ intentions in renewing nuclear negotiations. In a recent statement, Araghchi stated that Iran has little trust in Washington and questioned the sincerity of the US in their efforts to revive the nuclear deal.
The nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran and six world powers, including the US. The agreement aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. However, in 2018, former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran, causing tensions between the two countries.
Since taking office, President Joe Biden’s administration has shown interest in reviving the JCPOA and engaging in discussions with Iran. However, the two sides have been at a stalemate over who should take the first step in returning to the deal. The US has demanded that Iran first comply with its nuclear obligations, while Iran insists that the US must first lift the sanctions.
Speaking at a virtual conference on the Middle East, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s stance and said, “The US needs to prove its seriousness and genuine intention by lifting all sanctions that have been imposed or re-imposed after the withdrawal from the JCPOA.” He also stated that Iran has little trust in the US after the previous administration’s actions.
Araghchi’s statement comes after recent talks between the two countries in Vienna, Austria, failed to produce any significant progress. The talks, which were held in April, aimed to discuss ways to revive the JCPOA and bring both parties back into compliance. However, the US and Iran have not been able to reach an agreement on the sequence of steps to be taken.
The Iranian deputy foreign minister also raised concerns about the US’s approach to the negotiations, questioning whether they are serious about finding a solution. He stated, “We have not seen any serious signs of willingness from the US to resolve the issue, and this raises doubts about their intentions.” These doubts have been further amplified by the recent cyber-attacks on Iran’s nuclear facility at Natanz, which Iran has accused Israel of orchestrating.
Despite the challenges, Iran has remained committed to finding a diplomatic solution to the issue. Araghchi emphasized that Iran is willing to engage in negotiations and find a way to return to the JCPOA, but only if the US shows genuine intentions and lifts all sanctions. He also urged the US to return to its obligations under the deal and refrain from any actions that could undermine the negotiations.
Iran’s skepticism towards the US’s intentions is understandable, given the history of strained relations between the two countries. However, it is crucial for both parties to approach the negotiations with a positive and constructive mindset. The revival of the JCPOA is not only in the interest of Iran and the US but also crucial for regional stability and international security.
In conclusion, Abbas Araghchi’s statement reflects Iran’s cautious approach towards the US and their concerns about the sincerity of the negotiations. However, it is essential for both parties to maintain an open and cooperative attitude to find a resolution to the issue. The international community also has a role to play in encouraging both sides to return to the JCPOA and preserve the progress made through the agreement. It is time for all parties to come together and work towards a mutually beneficial solution that will benefit the entire world.
