Iran FM: Qatar-mediated talks progressing smoothly; final agreement hinges on US response

[Financial News] As an Iranian diplomatic delegation visits Qatar, a mediator, to continue indirect discussions on peace negotiations with the United States, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Washington to make a decision, saying the final outcome of the negotiations depends entirely on the US response.

According to Iran’s state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) and other outlets on the 1st (local time), Minister Araghchi met with reporters after attending a meeting of parliament’s Commission on National Security and Foreign Policy that day, and described the results of the Iranian diplomatic delegation’s visit to Qatar and the progress of negotiations.
Minister Araghchi said, “This visit to Qatar took place at the deputy foreign minister level and was intended to continue consultations with Qatari mediators who have visited Tehran in recent weeks.” He made clear, however, that there had been no plan from the outset to negotiate directly with the US side during the visit.
On the key issues in the negotiations, he said, “Consultations with the mediators on the so-called ‘two-day proposal’ and the process of implementing it are currently proceeding smoothly.”
He nevertheless stressed, “We have not yet reached a definitive conclusion, and whether we arrive at a final outcome depends entirely on what answer the other side (the US) gives to our questions.” This was understood to mean that Iran is waiting for a clear answer from the US on the conditions it has put forward. He added, “We are doing our best in this process,” and, “We hope the US will make a rational decision and prioritize diplomacy over the other option—a military solution.”

While seeking a diplomatic settlement, Minister Araghchi also reaffirmed a hard-line military posture, preparing for every scenario, including a breakdown in negotiations and an escalation of armed conflict.
Referring to the order issued the previous day by Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei directing military leaders to “respond immediately without geographical limits,” he said, “The instructions issued by the commander-in-chief to senior commanders clearly demonstrate Iran’s firm resolve.”
He went on to warn, “Our military has been given a very clear mission and, drawing on the experience of the two previous wars, has become much stronger than before. Iran is preparing for both defense and diplomacy at the same time. Which path the US chooses depends on its rational judgment.”
[email protected] Park Ji-hyun Reporter