Iran-US Nuclear Talks: Iran wants “Real and Fair” Deal – A new hope or return of old tension?
The world’s attention is once again focused on the nuclear talks between Iran and America. This weekend, both countries are going to sit at the table once again in Oman, where diplomacy is rife from both sides. But the question arises: will something new come out this time, or will the same old dilemma be seen again?
Iran’s stance: Not just a show, we want a real and fair agreement
Tehran has given a very clear message this time – he doesn’t want just negotiations in front of cameras, but a “real and fair” agreement. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s adviser Ali Shamkhani wrote on social media platform X, “Tehran is not doing a show, but is entering into negotiations with an implementable, important and fair proposal.”
He confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been sent to Oman with full authority so that indirect negotiations can be made with America. Shamkhani had said that if Washington showed goodwill, the way ahead could be smooth.
Trump’s Position: Iran cannot make a Nuclear Bomb
Former US President Donald Trump, who is currently trying to come back to power, clearly said – “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.” While talking to journalists in Air Force One, he also talked about a “great and happy” future for Iran, but nuclear bomb is a red line for him.
Trump’s close aide and special envoy Steve Witkoff is also ready for the Oman talks. While talking to the Wall Street Journal, he said, “Our starting position is that Iran should dismantle its entire nuclear program.” But he also added that “compromise is possible on some margins” – meaning if weaponization does not happen, then there can be flexibility in other areas.
From Obama Deal to Trump Strategy
In 2015, former President Barack Obama signed a historic nuclear deal with Iran whose aim was to keep Iran away from nuclear weapons without destroying its entire program. But Trump called that deal “weak” and broke it and imposed new sanctions on Iran.
Iran also initially followed through on the deal for a year but later reversed its commitments. Meanwhile, the US imposed tough sanctions on Iran’s oil sector and nuclear program, which Iran’s nuclear chief Mohammad Eslami described as “useless” and “psychological operations.”
Iran’s response: Good faith diplomacy, but alert too
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said, “Iran is giving diplomacy a chance in good faith.” He also said the US should appreciate the decision, especially as it faces hostile rhetoric from its side.
But Iran has also made it clear that if the US exerts pressure or raises irrelevant issues, the talks could fail. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said, “If the American side keeps irrelevant demands and threats on its side, then there is a possibility of an agreement.”
Israel and Regional Tensions
Shortly after the announcement of talks, Trump also held a meeting with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu warned – if diplomacy fails, then military action will be “invitable”.
Tensions between Iran and Israel are already quite high, especially after the Hamas attack in October 2023. Iran-backed Hezbollah is also causing damage in Lebanon. Iran’s main ally, Syria’s Bashar al-Assad, was also removed in December.
Europe’s Reaction: “No Alternative to Diplomacy”
The European Union also issued a statement saying, “There is no alternative to diplomacy.” They are still supporters of the 2015 deal and want the talks to focus solely on the nuclear issue.
What could be the outcome?
These talks are critical not just for the future ties between Iran and the US, but for the entire Middle East region. While Iran’s hardliners are calling this process a “failed strategy,” the West wants Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional influence to be included.
If both sides soften a bit and understand the red lines, then a new breakthrough could be possible. But if the trust deficit continues as it has in the past, then the Oman talks will also remain another missed opportunity.
What do you think – will a “real and fair” deal really be struck between Iran and the US this time? Do give your opinion in the comments below.
For more updates on global politics, follow this blog and stay tuned.