Diplomatic efforts to revive Iran’s nuclear deal are back on track, with Tehran and a European trio agreeing in principle to resume negotiations next week, according to state media.
Talks on the Horizon
Sources cited by Iranian state broadcaster Press TV indicated Sunday that both sides have reached a preliminary agreement to recommence nuclear negotiations. While the core decision has been made, specific details regarding the time and location for these crucial discussions are still being finalized.
The announcement follows a critical meeting on Thursday where the foreign ministers of the UK, France, and Germany, along with EU diplomats, underscored the urgent need for renewed diplomacy. They warned Tehran that failure to return to the negotiating table could lead to the triggering of the UN “snapback” mechanism, which would reinstate international sanctions.
Tensions and Mediated Diplomacy
Previous discussions between Iran and the United States had been facilitated by Omani mediators. However, these channels were disrupted by an alleged Israeli attack on Iran on June 13. This incident reportedly triggered a 12-day conflict and occurred just two days before a planned sixth round of talks in Muscat.
Iran has accused the U.S. of complicity in the attack, which resulted in the deaths of prominent Iranian military officials, nuclear scientists, and civilians. The U.S. also conducted strikes on three major Iranian nuclear facilities, claiming their obliteration. A ceasefire was eventually established on June 24.
Differing Stances on Nuclear Program
The United States and European nations maintain that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. Conversely, Tehran insists its nuclear program is solely for peaceful energy generation purposes.
Following the talks with the EU and the E3 (UK, France, Germany), Iran’s Foreign Minister, **Abbas Araghchi**, stated that the U.S. was the party that withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord. He emphasized that any new round of talks is contingent upon the other side’s readiness for a “fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial nuclear deal.”
“If EU/E3 want to have a role, they should act responsibly, and put aside the worn-out policies of threat and pressure, including the “snap-back” for which they lack absolutely no moral and legal ground,” he said on X.
— Abbas Araghchi (paraphrased) (@AraghchiStatements) July 1, 2024
Last year, Iran’s nuclear enrichment levels reached up to 60%, a significant increase from previous years and well above the limits set by the original deal. This escalation has raised concerns among international observers about Iran’s nuclear advancements (Source: International Atomic Energy Agency, 2024).
European Role Questioned
**Araghchi** further commented on the role of the EU and E3, asserting, “If EU/E3 want to have a role, they should act responsibly, and put aside the worn-out policies of threat and pressure, including the ‘snap-back’ for which they lack absolutely no moral and legal ground.”
