- Iran nuclear talks harden stance after US military buildup
- Iran nuclear talks continue amid protests and US pressure
Iran’s top diplomat on Sunday rejected pressure from global powers and asserted that Tehran draws strength from its ability to resist coercion, even as Iran nuclear talks with the United States remain uncertain. The remarks came soon after negotiations between Iran and the US over Tehran’s nuclear program and amid reports of a growing American military presence in the Middle East. The comments also followed nationwide protests inside Iran, adding to the tense backdrop of diplomacy.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the statements while addressing diplomats at a summit in Tehran. He signalled that Iran would not compromise on its demand to retain the ability to enrich uranium. This issue remains a major point of contention with US President Donald Trump, who bombed Iranian atomic sites in June during the 12 day Iran Israel war. Meanwhile, Araghchi’s remarks highlighted the challenges facing Iran nuclear talks despite recent engagement.
“I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressures from others,” Araghchi said. He added, “They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb. Our atomic bomb is the power to say no to the great powers. The secret of the Islamic Republic’s power is in the power to say no to the powers.” His language drew attention as Iran continues to insist its nuclear program is peaceful.
However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian offered a more positive note. He praised the talks held on Friday in Oman with American representatives as “a step forward.” Later, he wrote on X, “The Iran-US talks, held through the follow-up efforts of friendly governments in the region, were a step forward,” and added, “Dialogue has always been our strategy for peaceful resolution. … The Iranian nation has always responded to respect with respect, but it does not tolerate the language of force.”
Meanwhile, the United States moved the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with ships and warplanes, to the Middle East. The move aimed to pressure Iran into an agreement and signal readiness to strike if needed. During the talks, US Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, head of Central Command, was present in Oman. He later accompanied US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to the carrier in the Arabian Sea.
Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60 per cent purity. Western nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency say Tehran once had an organised military program until 2003. Araghchi warned about risks in diplomacy, saying the US had “attacked us in the midst of negotiations,” and added, “If you take a step back (in negotiations), it is not clear up to where it will go.” It remains unclear when or if the next round of Iran nuclear talks will occur.
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