Second round of talks held between the US and Iran: Khamenei causes confusion

The second round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran has concluded. Shortly after the talks ended, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that they had reached an agreement with the US on "fundamental principles" and stated that a third round of talks would be held. On the other hand, statements by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have caused confusion.

The indirect talks lasted approximately 4 hours. Starting around 10 a.m. Geneva time, this round of talks focused primarily on the technical aspects of the negotiations.

The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the American side was led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner.

WE HAVE AGREED ON FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the second round of indirect talks with the US in Geneva was more serious and constructive than the previous round.

Araghchi stated that "various ideas were discussed and a general consensus was reached on a number of fundamental principles."

The Foreign Minister said, "There have been good developments compared to the last round of talks. Both sides will work on potential draft agreements and share them with each other. This does not mean we will reach an agreement soon, but the path has been opened."

Araghchi added, "Both sides have conditions that will take time to reconcile, but we now have a set of guiding principles that allow us to move forward."

No date has been set for the next round yet; both sides will work on the issues and exchange ideas before further meetings and planning.

After both sides consult with their respective governments, a third round of negotiations will be held in the "near future."

KHAMENEI'S WORDS CAUSED CONFUSION

Immediately after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, "We have agreed on fundamental principles," statements by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei caused confusion.

In a statement on X, Khamenei said, "The Americans say, 'Let's negotiate about your nuclear energy, and the result of the negotiation should be that you do not possess this energy!' If this is the case, there is no room for negotiation; but if negotiations are truly to be held, predetermining the outcome of the negotiations is wrong and foolish behavior."

Khamenei's harsh words, coming after Araghchi's press statement which gave positive messages, caused confusion.

The US delegation, which is currently mediating the Russia-Ukraine peace talks, has not yet made a statement.

'WE ARE NOT PURSUING NUCLEAR WEAPONS, WE WILL DEFEND OURSELVES'

Araghchi reiterated that his country is not pursuing nuclear weapons. The Foreign Minister stated that Tehran has repeatedly said it "does not intend to produce or acquire nuclear weapons, which have no place in Iran's national security doctrine."

In his remarks to reporters, Araghchi said the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons "clearly recognizes the inalienable right of all states parties to research, produce, and use nuclear energy, including enrichment for peaceful purposes."

"This right is inherent, non-negotiable, and legally binding," he said.

In his statement, Araghchi also added that "Iran is fully prepared to defend itself against any threat or attack," noting that "the consequences of adventurous actions will not be limited to Iran's borders."

News Source: 12punto