lran Signals Readiness for Nuclear Talks with US, But Demands Security Guarantees

July 14, 2025
Tehran — Iran has expressed conditional willingness to resume nuclear negotiations with the United States, demanding firm guarantees that future talks will not be disrupted by military aggression. The announcement follows weeks of heightened tensions after Israeli and American strikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, speaking to foreign diplomats in Tehran, stated that Iran remains open to dialogue but insists on assurances that negotiations will not lead to war. “We must ensure that talks are not a prelude to further attacks,” Araghchi said, referencing the 12-day Israeli bombardment and a U.S. airstrike on June 22 that severely damaged key nuclear sites.
Iran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following the strikes, citing safety concerns for inspectors and the risk of radioactive contamination. Araghchi clarified that future cooperation would be evaluated “case by case” under Iranian law, with national security as a guiding principle.
The foreign minister also reiterated Iran’s right to enrich uranium on its own soil, a major sticking point in previous negotiations. While the U.S. has opposed domestic enrichment, Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and essential for energy and medical research.
President Masoud Pezeshkian added that the damage from recent airstrikes has hindered Iran’s ability to assess its nuclear infrastructure, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Despite the setbacks, indirect diplomatic channels remain open. Araghchi emphasized that Iran respects dialogue but warned that trust must be rebuilt before formal talks can resume. “The diplomacy track is not closed,” he said, “but it’s a two-way street.”
The Biden administration has yet to respond publicly to Iran’s conditions. Analysts say that any breakthrough will require not only technical agreements but also a recalibration of strategic trust between the two adversaries.