Iran holds line ...
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Iran’s goal is to reassure the world it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and continues to seek peaceful use of nuclear technology, something it considers an inalienable right.
If, however, the other side tries to chip away at Iran’s peaceful capabilities or push for restrictions, the Iranian delegation will draw a hard line. Any deal that whittles down the country’s nuclear strength or involves such concessions crosses a red line and will be rejected outright.
Other issues frequently dragged into negotiations by Washington—missile capabilities, regional influence, the Resistance Front, human rights, and drones—are seen as strengths by Iran. Including them in the talks is a non-starter and would only serve to play into efforts to weaken Iran’s regional standing and therefore should be avoided.
As for Muscat, the venue was no accident. Oman has long maintained a neutral stance in regional politics and stayed on good terms with Iran. It was the right call to settle on Oman, given its history of honest intermediation.
The format—indirect talks through Omani mediation—also stems from Washington’s track record of hostile behavior over the past decades. Iran believes the US has not yet created the conditions for a direct meeting, especially after years of economic, political, and security pressure.
Before the talks even began, the US had rattled its sabers, attempting to dictate terms, even pushing back against Muscat as the location. Iran stood firm, insisting that the talks be held in Oman. It also made it clear that threats have no place at the table.
If the US steps out of line, Iran has warned it will hit back hard, making it clear it possesses the military capabilities to do so if provoked. But that is not the route Tehran seeks. Talks must remain on track, focused solely on the nuclear file.
Hopefully, efforts by Zionist lobbies, some regional rivals, and Iran’s adversaries will not derail the process. Regardless of the outcome, Iran has entered negotiations with dignity and strength and has made it clear that it will never bow to pressure or sign off on anything under threat.