Iran: Talks with US were constructive, nuclear programme to continue

Iran’s negotiations with the United States on its nuclear dossier, held on May 11, have been described as productive, with both sides not considering the cessation of Iran’s nuclear programme.

Official spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baqaei said that, the issue of ending the nuclear programme is not on the agenda, Caliber.Az reports per Iranian media.

“We have learned from past experience and know the measures that need to be taken. These talks have been constructive,” Baqaei said during a broadcast on Iranian state television and radio.

He added that Iran has maintained communication with all parties it considers necessary, both before and during the negotiations. This includes neighbouring countries on both sides of the Persian Gulf, as well as nations to the east and west, such as Türkiye and Pakistan, alongside participants of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action — Russia and China.

Regarding the European trio, Baqaei confirmed Iran’s readiness to continue dialogue with them.

“In Tehran, we have also maintained contact with their ambassadors. This process will continue regularly,” he said.

To recall, Iran and the United States held their fourth round of nuclear talks on Sunday in Muscat, Oman, ahead of President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East visit. The discussions lasted about three hours and were described as “difficult but useful” by Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei. A U.S. official noted the talks involved both direct and indirect negotiations, with Oman mediating and shuttling messages between the sides.

The talks aim to curb Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for easing U.S. sanctions. However, key disagreements remain, particularly over Iran’s right to enrich uranium—a stance firmly defended by Tehran as non-negotiable. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff insisted on the complete dismantlement of Iran’s enrichment facilities, calling it a red line.

Since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has expanded its uranium enrichment up to 60%, close to weapons-grade levels, heightening regional tensions amid threats from Israel and the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Domestically, Iran faces economic pressures worsened by sanctions, though its currency has strengthened slightly amid talks. Internal unrest continues, with protests over the hijab law and potential fuel price hikes. The recent deadly explosion at the Shahid Rajaei port adds further strain, with the cause still unclear.

By Aghakazim Guliyev