Iran’s Foreign Minister Rules Out Direct US Talks Without Major Changes

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that direct negotiations with the United States are currently impossible without fundamental changes.

Araghchi discussed Iran’s position on the JCPOA nuclear agreement and the possibility of indirect negotiations.

“We are prepared for war but do not seek it,” said Araghchi, adding that Iran “has tried negotiations with America many times,” with the JCPOA being one example.

He clarified that revival talks during both the Rouhani and Raisi administrations were conducted indirectly.

Araghchi stated that “the JCPOA, in its current form and text, is not revivable,” though he considers it “a basis and model for negotiations.”

He said the core principle - Iran providing nuclear assurances in exchange for sanctions relief - remains valid.

“Negotiations with America are not possible under current conditions,” Araghchi added. “A series of things must change” before talks can happen.

The comments follow previous statements by senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who described negotiations with the United States as “not wise.”