AhlulBayt News Agency: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has described the latest round of indirect talks with the United States as “one of the most professional” negotiations, emphasizing that Tehran will continue to hold its ground and maintain its clear positions.
Araghchi made the remarks following the conclusion of the fifth round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington, which lasted over three hours in Rome on Friday. The discussions were mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi.
“This round was one of the most professional negotiations we have had. Once again, we outlined the positions and principles of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Our stance is completely clear, and we remain firm on it,” Araghchi stated.
He noted that the American side now has a more precise understanding of Iran’s position.
Prior to his departure for Rome, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to its uranium enrichment program, making it clear that a deal would not be possible if the US continued to demand a complete halt to Iran’s enrichment rights.
“Figuring out the path to a deal is not rocket science: Zero nuclear weapons = we DO have a deal. Zero enrichment = we do NOT have a deal,” Araghchi wrote on X.
Following the fifth round of negotiations, both sides agreed to transfer exchanged proposals and ideas to their respective capitals for further discussion.
Araghchi stated that the Omani mediator also worked toward solutions to overcome obstacles and facilitate progress.
Iran is set to review new solutions and proposals that could be beneficial while upholding its core principles and positions.
“The two sides will provide their views on these proposals, and then the next round of negotiations will be scheduled,” he added.
Araghchi expressed optimism that further discussions would take place in the next round if the proposals were accepted by both capitals.
“Indirect negotiations remain open, and the talks will continue,” he affirmed.
He admitted that the negotiations were complex and could not be resolved in just a few sessions, but emphasized that progressing on a reasonable path itself is an achievement.
Araghchi voiced hope that upcoming sessions would yield practical solutions now that Tehran’s stance is better understood.
“We are not at that stage yet, but we are also not hopeless,” he remarked.
He acknowledged that Oman’s proposed solutions could potentially help both sides make progress.
Similar to previous rounds, Araghchi and US President Donald Trump’s regional envoy, Steve Witkoff, led the negotiations.
Since April, Tehran and Washington have held four indirect negotiation rounds in Rome and Muscat over Iran’s nuclear program. Iranian officials have frequently criticized shifting US positions, calling them contradictory.
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