Iran denies imminent deal with US, stresses need for sanctions relief

Amid growing speculation in international media about a potential breakthrough in US-Iran relations, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi dismissed reports of an imminent agreement, reiterating Iran’s conditions for any diplomatic resolution.

"Media is speculating about an imminent Iran-U.S. deal. Not sure if we are there yet," Araghchi wrote in a post on X, Caliber.Az reports. 

He emphasised that Iran remains committed to diplomacy but insisted that any agreement must fully lift sanctions and recognise Iran’s nuclear rights, including its right to uranium enrichment.

"Iran is sincere about a diplomatic solution that will serve the interests of all sides. But getting there requires an agreement that will fully terminate all sanctions and uphold Iran's nuclear rights—including enrichment," he stated.

Araghchi also criticised what he described as disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining diplomatic efforts, taking a swipe at Israel for allegedly using Iran as a tool to deflect criticism of US foreign policy.

“As for the latest fake news against Iran-U.S. diplomacy: using Iran to attack American critics is low, even for Israel,” he added.

Iran and the US have conducted five rounds of indirect negotiations in Muscat and Rome, mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi. A sixth round has not yet been scheduled. The discussions aim to restrict Iran’s nuclear activities in return for the easing of U.S. sanctions.

While President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened airstrikes if a deal is not reached, Iranian officials have hinted at the possibility of developing nuclear weapons, despite asserting their nuclear program is peaceful. 

Talks remain deadlocked over key issues, especially uranium enrichment. Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei rejected the idea of a three-year freeze, saying: "Iran will never accept that." He also dismissed reports of a possible interim deal.

By Sabina Mammadli