Media: Iran doubts US will accept proposal for indirect talks on nuclear program

The Iranian government has expressed uncertainty over whether the United States will accept Tehran's proposal for indirect negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program.

The statement was made by a source within the Iranian Cabinet, as reported by the Iraqi news outlet Baghdad Today.

"We are unsure whether Washington will agree to the idea of indirect dialogue," the source explained, highlighting concerns over the U.S. stance on the matter.

The source suggested that U.S. President Donald Trump is highly public-facing and eager to present himself as a dealmaker. Despite this, the official indicated that Trump might be open to direct negotiations if an indirect dialogue proves successful, aligning with his media and political ambitions.

The Iranian government representative also cautioned against underestimating the threats made by President Trump against Tehran. "Despite Trump's tendency to exaggerate, his threats should not be dismissed as mere empty rhetoric," the source emphasized, warning of the seriousness of the situation.

In March 2025, President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, proposing direct talks to address Iran's nuclear activities. However, Iran has maintained its stance on preferring indirect discussions. ​In early April 2025, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the prospect of direct negotiations with the U.S., labeling them as "meaningless." He cited concerns over U.S. threats of force and contradictory positions as deterrents to meaningful dialogue. ​

The U.S. administration has been actively pursuing direct talks with Iran to address nuclear proliferation concerns. President Donald Trump sent a letter to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on March 12, 2025, proposing negotiations. 

However, in early April, the United States expressed openness to Iran's proposal for indirect nuclear talks. White House officials are considering engaging in discussions facilitated by intermediaries, such as Oman, to address concerns over Iran's nuclear program. However, the U.S. has also increased its military presence in the Middle East as a precautionary measure, deploying assets like aircraft carriers and bombers. 

By Khagan Isayev