Iran Rejects U.S. Negotiations Amidst ‘Maximum Pressure’ Policy

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that discussions with the U.S. concerning its nuclear program are pointless amidst ongoing ‘maximum pressure’ tactics. He criticized American officials’ inconsistent positions and urged European countries to reconsider their sanctions approach. The dialogue with Britain focused on improving bilateral relations and maintaining communication channels, reaffirmed by mutual congratulations during Nowruz.

Iran maintains that direct negotiations with the United States concerning its peaceful nuclear program are futile while the ‘maximum pressure’ policy persists, coupled with military threats. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi articulated this stance during a phone call with British counterpart David Lammy, emphasizing that diplomacy should not be used as a tool for political manipulation against Iran.

Araghchi criticized the inconsistency in the statements of American officials regarding negotiations, reaffirming that Iran views the use of diplomatic channels to exert pressure as unacceptable. He also noted that Iran has communicated the U.S. president’s responses through appropriate diplomatic avenues, reflecting a responsible approach in adherence to diplomatic norms.

The maximum pressure policy was reinstated by the Trump administration, which had initially implemented it in 2016. This policy led to the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear agreement in 2018 and the reintroduction of severe sanctions, undermining the prior deal that allowed Iran temporary restrictions on its nuclear activities in exchange for sanction relief.

In a recent announcement, Trump mentioned he had reached out to Iran for nuclear negotiations while threatening military action. Furthermore, Araghchi expressed dissatisfaction with European nations and the EU’s unproductive positions, particularly the imposition of sanctions based on unfounded claims. He urged a reevaluation of their approaches toward Iran and broader West Asian concerns.

During the call, the foreign ministers of Iran and Britain also acknowledged the commencement of their new ambassadors’ work in each respective capital, expressing hope that this would foster improved bilateral relations. Mutual consular matters were discussed, along with a commitment to maintaining open communication channels between Tehran and London to address joint interests.

The British foreign secretary took the opportunity to congratulate Araghchi on Nowruz and reaffirmed Britain’s commitment, along with other European nations, to achieving a diplomatic resolution concerning Iran’s nuclear program.

In conclusion, Iran’s Foreign Minister asserted that any direct talks with the United States regarding nuclear negotiations are ineffective under the current ‘maximum pressure’ policy. The dialogue between Iranian and British officials highlighted future avenues for diplomatic engagement while addressing concerns regarding sanctions. The commitment to maintain communications indicates ongoing efforts to improve bilateral relations despite existing tensions over Iran’s nuclear activities.

Original Source: www.presstv.ir