Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has characterized the recent indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States as a significant ‘step forward’ in bilateral relations. The assessment was conveyed through the president’s official social media channel on Sunday, following Friday’s diplomatic engagement in Muscat, Oman.
The discussions, mediated by regional allies in West Asia, represent Iran’s continued commitment to peaceful conflict resolution through diplomatic channels. President Pezeshkian emphasized that dialogue remains Tehran’s preferred methodology for addressing international disagreements.
Concurrently, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who led the delegation in Muscat, delivered a firm address at a national conference in Tehran. ‘No one can dictate our capabilities or limitations,’ Araghchi asserted, simultaneously reaffirming Iran’s non-proliferation stance while rejecting external pressure tactics.
The Foreign Minister outlined Tehran’s reciprocal diplomatic approach: ‘Communication based on respect will be met with respect, while language of force will be met with equivalent response.’ This statement reflects Iran’s consistent foreign policy doctrine amid escalating regional tensions.
The negotiations occurred against a backdrop of heightened military posturing, including increased US military presence in the Middle East and corresponding Iranian preparedness measures. Despite these challenges, Araghchi characterized the talks as ‘a good start,’ while noting that continuation depends on subsequent consultations within respective capitals.
The Muscat engagement represents the first substantive nuclear dialogue between the nations in several years, potentially signaling a thaw in previously frozen diplomatic channels. Both sides appear to be testing waters for possible future engagement while maintaining their core strategic positions.