Copy in clipboard...
FM spox: Contradictory US demands behind protracted negotiations
"In a situation where the other side constantly changes its views, raises new or contradictory demands, and sends different and inconsistent media messages, it is natural that this situation prolongs the negotiation process," Baqaei said at his weekly press conference.
Talks between Iran and the US, mediated by Pakistan and facilitated by Qatar, are continuing based on Iran’s 14-point proposal. The discussions aim to produce a memorandum to end the joint US-Israeli aggression against Iran, end a blockade on Iran’s ports, and secure the release of frozen Iranian assets.
When asked about US President Donald Trump's recent claim that Iran's enriched uranium must be removed and destroyed, and whether Iran needs foreign technology to access the Fordow site, Baqaei responded, "Whenever we need to take action on nuclear issues, we know very well how to proceed."
"Regarding the details of nuclear-related discussions, no negotiations have taken place at this stage. I repeat once again that at this stage, our focus is on ending the war," he added.
Iran was already in negotiations with the United States about the fate of its nuclear program in February, when the US and Israel launched air and missile strikes on the country.
And, while Tehran has long insisted that its nuclear program is for purely civilian ends, the US and its Western allies have long claimed that it aims to develop a weapon.
On Sunday, Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf reiterated Tehran’s distrust in Washington’s “words and promises,” stressing that Iran would not agree to any deal with the US unless it fully secures Iranian rights.