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Deal within reach if US shows genuine will in Oman talks: Araghchi

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 08 April 2025 3:06 PM

Iran's foreign minister has voiced optimism ahead of the upcoming round of indirect talks with the United States, saying a deal can be reached if Washington demonstrates genuine will.

Abbas Araghchi, speaking in Algeria on Tuesday, said Iran's primary goal in the negotiations is to secure the rights of its people and achieve the lifting of sanctions and that the ball is now in America's court to prove it seeks a deal.

"If the other side is genuinely willing, this goal is attainable, regardless of whether the talks are direct or indirect," he said.

The minister said Iran favors indirect negotiations and has no plan to engage in direct talks.

Araghchi said that Iran rejects any negotiations conducted under pressure or threats.

"Such negotiations amount to dictation, and we do not believe in that approach. Indirect negotiations can help ensure a real and meaningful dialogue, and that's the path we will pursue."

Araghchi said indirect talks have occurred many times in the history of international relations.

"There are countries that, due to historical or other reasons, refuse to engage in direct talks. The current negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, for instance, are taking place indirectly through the US, since neither side is willing to meet face-to-face."

Regarding the agenda of the talks, Araghchi dismissed Israeli speculation that the process would mirror US-Libya negotiations from the early 2000s, which led to the dismantling of Libya's nuclear facilities.

"People may speculate or express their wishes, but what the Zionist regime has suggested—a 'Libya model' of negotiations—is merely a fantasy that will never be realized," he said.

The minister reiterated that Iran's nuclear program is entirely peaceful and legitimate and that the country is ready to take confidence-building steps to demonstrate the sincerity of its position.

"If there are any questions or ambiguities, we are ready to clarify. We are confident in the peaceful nature of our program, and we have no problem taking further steps to build trust—so long as they don't impose restrictions or undermine Iran's national goals."

"In return for confidence-building, it is only natural that the unjust sanctions imposed based on false accusations must be lifted."

US President Donald Trump made a surprise announcement during a White House meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on April 7, stating that his administration would initiate talks with Iran.

Araghchi later confirmed that Iran and the US will hold indirect talks in Oman on April 12. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will attend the talks on Washington's behalf, while Araghchi himself will represent Iran.