Iran Open to Indirect Talks with U.S., Rejects Direct Negotiations Under Pressure

Tehran signals conditional willingness for indirect diplomacy as the U.S. maintains sanctions and military threats over Iran's advancing nuclear program.

Iran has formally rejected direct negotiations with the U.S. but remains open to indirect talks, contingent on a reduction in sanctions and military threats.
President Trump’s March 12 letter, delivered via UAE intermediaries, combined threats with proposals for a nuclear verification program and set a two-month deadline for a new agreement.
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, though its uranium enrichment near weapons-grade levels continues to raise international concerns.
The Trump administration and Israel have warned that military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities could be an option if diplomatic efforts fail.
Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and adviser Kamal Kharazi, emphasize that indirect talks are possible, as they have occurred in the past.