Iran Weighs Participation in Fifth US Nuclear Talks Expected in Rome

The United States and Iran are preparing for a potential fifth round of indirect nuclear negotiations, likely to be held in Rome. While the US has proposed the talks and expressed willingness to offer an "off-ramp" for Iran toward prosperity and peace, Iran remains cautious and is still considering whether to participate, emphasizing its refusal to halt uranium enrichment. Iranian officials have criticized what they describe as unrealistic and contradictory US demands, particularly regarding "zero enrichment," and insist on the lifting of sanctions tied to their nuclear program. Both sides acknowledge previous rounds were generally positive, but ongoing disagreements and inconsistent US positions have introduced uncertainty into the process. Iranian diplomats stress that enrichment will continue with or without an agreement and highlight concerns about the impact of unilateral US sanctions on their economy and population. The negotiations remain delicate, with Iran advocating for transparency about its peaceful nuclear activities while demanding sanctions relief.