IRAN’S FM ARAGHCHI: “MESSAGES, NOT NEGOTIATIONS” WITH THE UNITED STATES
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has repeatedly stressed that the exchange of messages between Tehran and Washington through intermediaries should not be characterized as direct negotiations between Iran and the United States.
According to Araghchi, Iran may exchange messages with the U.S. through friendly countries and diplomatic intermediaries, particularly on issues involving regional security, de-escalation and outstanding disputes. However, Tehran does not regard such communications as constituting a formal negotiation process.
Araghchi has maintained that the distinction is important, emphasizing that indirect communication does not mean Iran has entered into direct talks with Washington.
Amid discussions surrounding an Iran-U.S. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Araghchi also indicated that any future negotiations would depend heavily on the implementation of the agreement and Washington’s willingness to honor its commitments.
His remarks underline Tehran’s continued insistence that any diplomatic process must be based on reciprocity, verifiable commitments and the fulfillment of previously agreed terms
The comments come as diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States remain closely watched, with intermediaries continuing to play a role in relaying messages between the two sides.