President Trump stated that the United States is set to hold direct talks with Iran aimed at addressing and curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions. He emphasized the preference for a diplomatic resolution over military intervention, warning of severe consequences should the talks fail. This development was revealed during an Oval Office meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed skepticism regarding the potential for a new agreement but supported efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Conversely, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that the forthcoming negotiations would be indirect, facilitated through a mediator. He underscored Iran's openness to dialogue but maintained that the discussions would not involve direct engagement with U.S. officials. Araghchi conveyed that the talks present an opportunity to assess the intentions and seriousness of the U.S. administration.
The backdrop to these discussions includes heightened tensions following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action , and the subsequent reinstatement of sanctions on Iran. In response, Iran has progressively expanded its uranium enrichment activities beyond the limits set by the JCPOA, raising international concerns about its nuclear objectives.
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