Tehran Demands Concrete Guarantees for Resumption of US Diplomatic Talks

Iran maintains its willingness to engage in negotiations but insists on receiving “credible guarantees” before resuming formal talks with the United States, according to statements made by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday, as reported by the state news agency IRNA.

Speaking at the 52nd session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Baghdad, Araghchi emphasized that Iran refuses to succumb to coercion, threats, or intimidation, stating that the nation will not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure. However, he noted that Tehran remains prepared for dialogue, provided it is rooted in mutual respect and backed by verifiable assurances.

Araghchi asserted that Iran has negotiated in “good faith” over the last two years. However, he argued that diplomatic initiatives have been consistently undermined by military strikes, which have fostered “deep mistrust” regarding the feasibility of restarting negotiations without safeguards against future aggression.

Despite these tensions, Araghchi maintained that Tehran has not closed the door on diplomatic channels.

He referenced a prior seven-day proposal transmitted through Qatar, suggesting that the Strait of Hormuz could see the restoration of normal maritime traffic if specific conditions are satisfied.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted the June 17 understanding reached between Iran and the US in Islamabad, which was facilitated by Pakistan and supported by Qatar. He noted that maritime traffic had successfully rebounded to approximately 60% of pre-war levels within two weeks, before the implementation of the agreement stalled.

Regarding the conflict in Yemen, Araghchi stated that there is no military resolution to the crisis, advocating instead for an inclusive political process and formal negotiations. He added that Iran is prepared to assist in facilitating dialogue between the conflicting parties based on an established peace roadmap.

Reiterating Tehran’s stance on Palestine, Araghchi called for unified action among OIC member states to defend Palestinian rights.

The two-day OIC foreign ministers’ meeting commenced in Baghdad on Saturday, convening representatives from member states to address regional crises, the situation in Palestine, peace, development, and international cooperation.

During the summit, held under the theme “Dialogue and Solidarity: Two Essential Pillars for Promoting Peace and Sustainable Development,” Iraq assumed the rotating presidency of the organization from Türkiye.

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