Iran urges US to respect Tehran's decision to enter talks

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the United States to respect Tehran's decision to enter into negotiations, emphasising that the move comes despite the continued aggressive rhetoric from Washington towards the Islamic Republic.

Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, made the call on X, highlighting that Iran’s willingness to engage in dialogue should be recognised by the US, Caliber.Az reports.

“In earnest and with candid vigilance, we are giving diplomacy a genuine chance,” Baghaei stated. “U.S. should value this decision formed despite their prevailing confrontational hoopla.”

Baghaei further stressed that Iran was not making any assumptions or predictions about the outcome of the potential talks.

“We do not prejudge… We do not predict… We intend to assess the other side’s intent and resolve this Saturday,” he added. “We shall reflect and respond accordingly.”

To recall, indirect talks between Iranian and US officials are scheduled to commence in Muscat, Oman, on April 12, with discussions expected to begin in the afternoon. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to address Tehran's nuclear programme. Oman’s Prime Minister is set to mediate between the two parties, facilitating negotiations.

This meeting follows strong denials from Tehran regarding claims that US Envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Oman could be cancelled, calling the reports “lies and psychological warfare.” The upcoming meeting is seen as a significant step after US President Donald Trump recently suggested direct negotiations with Iran had begun, aiming for a new agreement to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Iran has expressed its willingness for indirect talks, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei describing the approach as “generous, responsible, and wise.” The talks come amid rising speculation about potential Israeli or US military action against Iranian nuclear sites should a deal not be reached.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that an agreement could be achievable if the US demonstrates sufficient will, adding that the outcome largely depends on Washington’s approach.

By Aghakazim Guliyev