Iran rules out nuclear talks with US amid maximum pressure
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Iran stresses that it would not hold talks with the US concerning its nuclear program if it is subjected to maximum pressure sanctions by the Trump regime throughout the talks.
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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaks in a joint press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, in Tehran, Iran, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025 (AP)
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed on Friday that Tehran will not resume negotiations with Washington over its nuclear program as long as the Trump administration continues its "maximum pressure" policy.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit, Araghchi emphasized that Iran's nuclear program could not be dismantled through military action.
"You cannot destroy a nuclear program through an attack," Araghchi stated. "It is a technology we have achieved, and knowledge ingrained in minds cannot be bombed."
Araghchi also warned that any Israeli attack on Iran would trigger a broader conflict in the Middle East.
Regarding Iran's ties with Syria’s new government, the foreign minister noted that Tehran is in no rush to establish formal relations, signaling a cautious approach to engagement with Damascus' leadership.
Earlier in the year, Araghchi stressed that Iran was ready to hold constructive negotiations to achieve an agreement for its nuclear program.
In an exclusive interview with China's CCTV, Araghchi conveyed Tehran's willingness to resume talks, emphasizing the goal of reaching an agreement, as well as engaging in constructive talks "without delay".
He further explained that the Islamic Republic's approach remains consistent with the original JCPOA framework: building trust regarding Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions. "We are ready to negotiate on this foundation," he added.
US JCPOA withdrawal 'strategic mistake'
Araghchi highlighted that Iran negotiated the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in good faith over two years, achieving an agreement widely praised as a diplomatic success, stressing that Iran upheld its commitments, but the US unilaterally withdrew without justification, calling it a strategic mistake that led to increased sanctions.
However, one round of negotiations with European countries has already occurred, with another planned in the next two weeks. Regarding the US, Araghchi added that Iran will respond once the Trump administration finalizes its policy.
