On March 23, 2025, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi addressed the ongoing tensions in Iran-U.S. relations, stating firmly that Iran refuses to engage in direct negotiations with the United States under what he described as conditions of "maximum pressure." This statement came during a press briefing where Araghchi elaborated on Iran's stance toward the 2015 nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Araghchi unequivocally dismissed the prospect of restoring the JCPOA in its original form, asserting, "Under these conditions, it is impossible to negotiate with the U.S. unless there is a change in their approach... No wise individual would engage in direct negotiations under circumstances of maximum pressure.” He suggested that while the original framework of the JCPOA remains a potential foundation for future talks, the substantial advancements in Iran's nuclear capabilities since then rendered a return to the original agreement infeasible.
The Foreign Minister's comments are particularly significant in light of recent actions from the U.S. In a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, dated March 7, President Trump not only proposed negotiations for a new nuclear deal but also hinted at the possible use of military action if Iran refused to comply. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff noted Trump's intention to reignite dialogues that have been stalled since the withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018, which had resulted in severe economic sanctions imposed on Iran.
Highlighting Iran's ongoing concerns, Araghchi emphasized the country's pursuit of a peaceful nuclear program and confirmed that indirect negotiations with the U.S. were still being contemplated. He remarked that the JCPOA could provide a model for diplomacy but reiterated, “The JCPOA is no longer viable in its previous form. Our nuclear situation has advanced significantly, so reverting to past conditions is not possible.”
In light of Iran's recent actions in nuclear enrichment, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised alarms regarding the dwindling timeframe available to reach an agreement that could curtail Iran's nuclear advancements. In February 2025, Rafael Grossi, the IAEA's Director General, cautioned that Iran was continuing to enrich uranium close to weapons-grade levels, marking a pivotal moment in negotiations.
Iran's steadfast refusal to engage under duress reflects a broader historical context. Araghchi pointed out that the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA was a significant setback for diplomacy and stated, “This is not obstinacy, but a conclusion based on Iran’s historical experiences.” His remarks stressed the need for the U.S. to shift its approach in order for meaningful dialogue to take place.
As the situation stands, Iran is preparing to respond to Trump’s letter, which has faced sharp criticism from Ali Khamenei, who labeled it a threat. The escalation of rhetoric from the U.S. and the continued enrichment of uranium by Iran pose pressing questions about the future of nuclear diplomacy in the region.
Ultimately, the 2018 withdrawal by the U.S. has left deep scars in Iranian foreign policy, affecting not just nuclear discussions but all diplomatic engagements with Western powers. The pervasive sanctions have crippled Iran's economy, often leading to public discontent and challenging the Iranian government handle these pressures while attempting to maintain sovereignty.
In upcoming weeks, both sides face critical decisions. With Iran's enriching uranium nearing weapons-grade levels, and the backdrop of Trump's potential military threats, the path forward remains fraught with uncertainty. Araghchi's statements reflect Iran's firm stance against negotiating under perceived threats, underscoring the difficulties ahead in reaching a peaceful resolution.
