Iran Seeks 'Framework' Before Resuming US Talks, Deputy FM Says

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister has stated that talks with the United States cannot resume until the two sides agree on a shared 'framework'. This stance suggests a potential impasse in ongoing efforts to revive the nuclear deal, as both countries appear to be at odds over the fundamental structure and parameters of future negotiations.

The comments from Ali Bagheri Kani, Iran's top negotiator, underscore the deep divisions that continue to plague the Iran nuclear talks. Despite multiple rounds of discussions in Vienna, the two sides have struggled to find common ground on key issues, including the lifting of US sanctions and the verification of Iran's compliance with the deal.

Bagheri Kani's insistence on establishing a 'framework' before any further talks suggests that Iran is seeking to gain more leverage and set the terms of the negotiations upfront. This could make it even more challenging for the US and its allies to reach a new agreement with Iran on the nuclear program.

The nuclear talks have been stalled for months, with both sides accusing the other of intransigence and a lack of good faith. Iran has demanded the removal of all US sanctions imposed since 2015, while the US has insisted on Iran rolling back its nuclear activities to the levels agreed in the original 2015 nuclear deal.

Despite the ongoing challenges, European and international diplomats have continued to express cautious optimism that a deal can still be reached, provided both sides are willing to compromise. However, Bagheri Kani's latest comments suggest that Iran is digging in on its position and may be unwilling to make the concessions necessary for a breakthrough.

The failure to reach a new Iran nuclear deal could have significant geopolitical and security implications, potentially leading to increased tensions in the Middle East and a further escalation of the nuclear nonproliferation crisis. As the negotiations continue, the world will be watching closely to see if the US and Iran can find a way to overcome their differences and reach a mutually acceptable agreement.