Iran Signals Willingness for Direct Nuclear Talks with U.S. Under ‘Favorable Conditions’
“Iran is prepared for negotiations on an equal footing to safeguard its interests. The Islamic Republic’s position reflects the will of the people, and if suitable conditions arise, we are even willing to engage in direct talks,” Aref said.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Iran could engage in direct nuclear negotiations with the United States if circumstances prove favorable, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said Tuesday, according to state media.
Aref dismissed Washington’s calls for Tehran to fully abandon uranium enrichment as “a joke,” stressing that Iran’s negotiating stance is aimed at protecting its national interests.
“Iran is prepared for negotiations on an equal footing to safeguard its interests. The Islamic Republic’s position reflects the will of the people, and if suitable conditions arise, we are even willing to engage in direct talks,” Aref said.
Challenging U.S. policy, he added: “You don’t want to talk? What do you propose—going to war? Engaging in talks does not mean we intend to surrender.” He urged that such matters “should not be approached emotionally.”
The remarks came two days after President Masoud Pezeshkian also called for reviving dialogue with Washington.
“Negotiations are the only way to resolve our issues; otherwise, we risk facing war again. Agreeing to talks is not the same as surrendering. These matters must be handled realistically,” Pezeshkian said on Sunday.
