Iran FM says US outreach a ‘positive step’ as delegation in Qatar for talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi praised US Vice President JD Vance's letter to Tehran as a "positive step" toward reopening discussions between the two nations, according to Al Jazeera. The letter arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, though no formal reply has been sent yet. Araghchi emphasized the American effort to foster dialogue and mutual understanding as a positive move.

He confirmed that Tehran has held senior-level discussions about the letter's contents. However, Iran is not planning to meet with US officials currently, dismissing reports of such a meeting as mere speculation. Araghchi reiterated that Iran's conditions must be met before any direct or indirect talks can take place. He warned that the US risks repeating a mistake if its aim with the letter is to provoke conflict.

Iran is prepared for all possible outcomes, including war, and has bolstered its military readiness. Regarding the nuclear issue, Iran is currently evaluating proposals from mediators in a second phase of consultations. Araghchi noted that his aide is in Qatar to further these talks. The Qatari and Pakistani mediators are also continuing negotiations on Iran's terms.

Iran has reached an understanding with the mediators to condense the implementation of its proposal to two days. Iran's conditions for talks include lifting sanctions from the Islamabad memorandum, reducing US military presence in the region, restoring the oil waivers, and releasing all frozen Iranian funds, including those in Qatar.

The foreign minister stressed that Iran will not yield to US demands. He vowed to remain resolute and resistant, overcoming the challenging period with domestic capabilities.