Iran Outlines Principled Stance for Future Diplomatic Engagements
TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed that diplomatic discussions, including those concerning the lifting of sanctions, are ongoing through intermediaries with the United States and directly with European partners. Senior officials stated that while the nation remains prepared for negotiations, the framework for any future dialogue has been fundamentally reshaped by recent regional events.
A New Diplomatic Framework Post-Defense
In a detailed address, a Foreign Ministry official emphasized that one of the ministry’s core missions is the dedicated effort to have sanctions lifted through diplomatic channels. He confirmed that the previous administration had initiated this process, which led to five rounds of negotiations. However, he stated that the military aggression by the Israeli regime and subsequent American involvement prior to a proposed sixth round altered the landscape entirely.
The official underscored that the heroic defense of the nation during that period has naturally changed the context of any future negotiations. “It is not the case that, despite our martyrs, we will return to the negotiating table under the previous conditions,” he said. “The form and dimensions [of talks] will certainly be new, and new components have been entered that we must design for. We are currently designing in this regard.”
Rebuilding IAEA Relations and European Dialogue
The official also addressed Iran’s relationship with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), noting that it experienced turbulence following the attacks on the nation’s facilities. He clarified that interactions cannot simply return to how they were in the past. However, he reported positive progress, stating, “Just today, my colleagues in Vienna had good negotiations to reach a new framework, and we are close to reaching an understanding with the Agency on a new framework.”
Regarding European partners, the official confirmed that negotiations with the E3 (France, Germany, and the UK) are continuing, including several phone conversations with their foreign ministers. He expressed optimism that a better understanding of the situation is emerging but noted that the three European countries had made a significant error by triggering the Dispute Resolution Mechanism (JCPOA), an action which made the process more difficult.
Openness to Direct US Talks Based on Mutual Respect
On the subject of the United States, the official confirmed that discussions are being held through intermediaries. He reiterated Iran’s longstanding position for direct engagement, conditional on mutual respect. “On the day that the Americans are prepared to negotiate based on mutual respect, we are also prepared,” he stated, firmly adding that any talks must guarantee Iran’s rights and interests, and that all parties must remain focused on their obligations.