U.S. Political Will is Decisive for Nuclear Agreement, Iranian Diplomat States
TEHRAN – In a clear articulation of Iran’s position, a senior diplomat has stated that the revival of the stalled nuclear negotiations depends entirely on the political will and actions of the United States.
Saeed Khatibzadeh, the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister and head of the Center for Political and International Studies, made the remarks during his official visit to Japan. He emphasized that a return to the negotiating table is contingent upon a fundamental shift in Washington’s approach.
A Call for Equal Footing
“The realization of an agreement is possible if the United States has the will to reach one from a position of equality,” Khatibzadeh stated. He clarified that the continuation or resumption of talks is directly linked to the “behavior and real intention of the American side.”
The diplomat underscored that Iran’s defensive capabilities are not up for discussion. He addressed specific U.S. requests from September concerning Iran’s missile program, asserting, “Missiles are for preserving national sovereignty and territorial integrity and are not a subject of negotiations.”
Path Forward Requires Mutual Respect
Khatibzadeh outlined a clear path for progress, indicating that a successful outcome is achievable should the U.S. engage with genuine intent. “If America enters the negotiations with real will, speaks respectfully, and abandons illusions, everything is achievable,” he remarked.
On the separate issue of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections at a previously damaged nuclear facility, the Deputy Foreign Minister noted that access remains “very limited.” He highlighted the necessity for developing “methods for cooperation and conducting joint activities” to facilitate the agency’s monitoring work.
The comments reinforce Iran’s longstanding position that a diplomatic resolution to the nuclear file is within reach, provided the United States demonstrates a commensurate level of commitment and respect for the principles of the original agreement.