Iran Rejects Negotiation Under Pressure

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has expressed a willingness to negotiate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to resolve ongoing issues, but insists that such negotiations must not occur under external pressure. This statement follows his meeting with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi in Tehran, where they discussed Iran's nuclear program amid European powers pushing for a new resolution against Iran for its perceived lack of cooperation. Araqchi emphasized that the responsibility lies with the EU/E3 to adopt a rational policy, and reiterated Iran's commitment to its rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Relations between Iran and the IAEA have been strained, particularly concerning Iran's uranium enrichment activities and the agency's access to certain sites. Araqchi described the talks as constructive but warned of potential repercussions if further resolutions are imposed. The backdrop of these discussions includes uncertainty around the potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and his previous withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement.