Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Monday that Iran is open to resuming the 2015 nuclear deal with the United States, provided negotiations are conducted on equal terms and respect Iran’s sovereignty and national interests.

Speaking at a national event in Tehran, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to constructive global engagement, particularly with Islamic and neighboring countries, while maintaining mutual respect as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

“We are ready to reach an agreement within a framework that secures our national interests,” Pezeshkian said, echoing recent remarks by Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei. “But if they do not negotiate from an equal position, we will continue as before.” He stressed a balanced approach, neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic about the talks.

Diplomatic Progress Amid Tensions

The statement comes as The New York Times reports that the Trump administration is preparing for a third round of nuclear talks with Iran in Oman on April 26, following two rounds of indirect discussions in Rome. The talks are expected to focus on technical details, including uranium enrichment levels, stockpile limits, and verification mechanisms. While U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly favors a pragmatic approach, hardliners like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz oppose any deal allowing Iran to retain enrichment capabilities—a demand Tehran has firmly rejected, citing its right to peaceful nuclear technology.

Iranian sources indicated potential compromises, including scaling back enrichment to the 3.67% limit set by the original Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and transferring enriched uranium stockpiles to third countries, as done in 2016 with Russia. A proposed jointly operated enrichment facility with third-party oversight is also under consideration as a possible alternative to fully restoring the JCPOA.

Focus on Self-Reliance and Regional Ties

Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to self-reliance, stating, “We Iranians are competent and skillful, and we never look down on our capabilities.” Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to visit China this week for high-level talks, underscoring Beijing’s critical role as Iran’s largest oil buyer and a key player in nuclear diplomacy.

As negotiations approach, Iran’s emphasis on dignity and sovereignty signals a cautious yet pragmatic approach to re-engaging with the West while strengthening regional alliances. (ILKHA)