Iran Doubts US Seriousness as Nuclear Deadlock Persists Amid Regional Tensions

The Lead

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed doubt about the US's "seriousness" regarding talks to end the war in the region, despite receiving messages from President Donald Trump's administration indicating openness to new negotiations. The nuclear program deadlock remains unresolved, with Iran considering Russian proposals and seeking support from China and other BRICS nations.

The Diplomatic Stance in New Delhi

Araghchi made these statements during a media conference at a key BRICS meeting in India's capital, New Delhi. He emphasized that while Iran is open to negotiations, there remains significant distrust about US intentions.

"We are in doubt about their seriousness, but the moment we feel that they are serious and they are ready for a fair and balanced deal, we will certainly proceed in the course of negotiations," Araghchi told reporters.

The Nuclear Program Impasse

The Iranian foreign minister confirmed that the issue of Iran's "enriched material" remains in deadlock, with the nuclear program likely to be "postponed" until later stages of any future talks.

"For the time being, it is not under discussion, it's not under negotiation, but we will come to that subject in later stages," Araghchi stated.

He confirmed having spoken with Russian officials about Moscow's offer to store Iran's enriched uranium, saying Iran may consider the proposal at an appropriate time.

Regional and International Dynamics

The Iranian foreign minister expressed openness to support from other countries besides Russia, particularly China, which has been affected by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

"We appreciate any country who has the ability to help, particularly China," Araghchi said. "We have very good relations with China, we are strategic partners to each other, and we know that [the] Chinese have good intentions, so anything that can be done by them to help diplomacy would be welcomed by the Islamic Republic."

Meanwhile, President Trump has been in Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with few signs of a breakthrough in resolving the conflict with Iran.

BRICS Tensions and Geopolitical Fault Lines

Araghchi also appeared to single out the UAE for blocking parts of a BRICS ministerial statement, blaming a member state that has "its own special relationship with Israel".

"The only reason they stopped the final statement was their support for Israel and the United States in their aggression against Iran, which is very, very unfortunate," Araghchi said, highlighting the geopolitical divisions within the BRICS nations regarding the Iran conflict.