Iran‘s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed skepticism about resuming talks with the US, stating that the moment for “effective” nuclear talks between the two countries has not yet arrived.
In an interview with state media, Araghchi emphasized that Tehran would not completely cut off cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “In my opinion, we have not yet reached the point of maturity where effective negotiations with the US can take place,” Araghchi said.
The Iranian foreign minister’s comments come after a 12-day conflict in June, during which the US and Israel launched massive bombardments on Iranian territory.
Since then, inspectors from the IAEA have been unable to access Iran’s nuclear installations, despite the agency’s chief Rafael Grossi stating that inspections remain essential.
US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have warned that they will not hesitate to attack Iran again if it resumes enrichment of uranium, a possible pathway to developing nuclear weapons.
Araghchi clarified that while Iran is not cutting off all cooperation with the IAEA, the return of inspectors to Iranian nuclear sites would depend on a decision by the country’s Supreme National Security Council.
“The return of inspectors will be possible based on the parliament’s law, that is, with the approval of the Supreme National Security Council… So, it is not that we say we absolutely cut cooperation with the agency,” he explained.
This development follows Iran’s parliament passing legislation suspending cooperation with the IAEA and stipulating that any future inspections would need a green light from Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council.
Araghchi mentioned that a meeting with European leaders could take place in the coming days, although “a basis for negotiations” has not been reached.
European powers, including Britain, France, and Germany, have threatened to activate UN sanctions on Iran under a “snapback” mechanism if Iran does not return to the negotiation table.
The Iranian foreign minister’s remarks suggest that Tehran is cautious about engaging in talks with the US, given the current tensions and mistrust between the two nations.