Iran denies reports of interim nuclear deal with US

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei dismissed media speculation regarding ongoing Iran–US negotiations, particularly reports suggesting a potential interim agreement, calling such claims “unfounded," ISNA reports.

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Baghaei said: “None of these reports are confirmed by us, and speculation about the details of the negotiations—especially regarding an interim agreement—has no basis.” He emphasized that drafting any negotiation text is a joint undertaking. “Our position on the termination of US sanctions and nuclear-related issues is clear, and we are also aware of the US side’s views,” he added.

Baghaei stressed that progress is possible if goodwill exists on both sides. “We are currently in the phase of drafting positions,” he said, expressing hope that another round of talks would take place in the coming days, as previously announced by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

Responding to reports attributed to US officials suggesting Iran should “surrender” or claiming that Iran is only a week away from obtaining a nuclear weapon, Baghaei said such contradictory statements are not new. “No negotiation aimed at forcing one side will yield results—at least not in the case of Iran,” he stressed.

He reiterated that Iran remains serious and determined in pursuing diplomacy, grounded in confidence in the legitimacy of its positions. “We will continue this process steadfastly, relying on the solid foundations of our demands,” Baghaei said.

When asked about Iran’s confidence amid increased US military deployments in the region, Baghaei attributed it to “the legitimacy of Iran’s cause and its historical and civilizational heritage.” “The character and conduct of the Iranian people are incompatible with surrender. From the perspective of international law, speaking of surrender contradicts established legal principles,” he added, highlighting Iran’s pursuit of dignity, independence, and respect for national sovereignty over the past 48 years.

Baghaei also warned that the United States cannot ignore Iran’s national and security concerns. “Judging Iran through your own lens will not lead to accurate conclusions,” he said, adding that Iran will frustrate excessive demands from the United States or any party adopting a posture of superiority.

He concluded by asserting that “a statesman’s legacy should be one of healing historical wounds, not reopening them.”

By Vafa Guliyeva