On Monday, an Iranian lawmaker asserted that the US is sending “positive signals” in ongoing indirect negotiations aimed at reigniting talks over Iran’s nuclear program.
reports in local media, Abbas Moghtadaei, deputy chairman of Iran’s parliamentary committee for national security and foreign policy has suggested recent communications from Washington point to a “more realistic” approach from their side. He told reporters: “While we remain cautious, their tone and content of recent messages indicate their desire to move towards mutual understanding.”
Oman and other intermediaries have recently assisted renewed diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington, with direct talks taking place reportedly via intermediaries like Oman in order to revive the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an agreement which the U.S. pulled out of in 2018 under former president Donald Trump.
Since the U.S.’s withdrawal, Iran has steadily reduced its commitments under the deal and begun enriching uranium at higher levels and expanding its nuclear activities. Negotiations efforts to bring both sides back into compliance have been underway for some time but remain stagnant over disagreements regarding sanctions relief, verification measures, and political guarantees.
Moghtadaei stressed Iran’s desire for a “serious, practical agreement” which ensures the lifting of economic sanctions while respecting Iran’s sovereign rights. Iran had always fulfilled its commitments when treated fairly, Moghtadaei stated, adding if American representatives demonstrated genuine political will there is still hope of reaching an understanding.
U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed any major shift in position but have reiterated their preference for diplomacy as the way forward to address concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. A State Department spokesperson at a press briefing stated: “We continue to pursue a diplomatic solution while being prepared for all potential contingencies.
European nations involved with the original JCPOA — France, Germany and the UK among them — have expressed cautious optimism but noted that time is running out as Iran continues its nuclear program development – making a return to original terms increasingly challenging.
Regional reactions to recent developments have been mixed. Israel remains deeply skeptical of any agreement, and continues to advocate for tougher sanctions on Iran. By contrast, some Gulf states have welcomed the prospect of reduced tensions if a deal can be struck.
As indirect talks continue informally, both sides appear to be probing each other’s intentions – observers noting that while progress may be possible, significant obstacles still must be cleared before any formal agreement can be signed off on.