A crucial development in the ongoing nuclear negotiations: Iran is willing to consider compromises, but will the US play ball?
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi revealed that his country is open to discussions and potential concessions if the US is willing to lift sanctions. This statement comes as a surprise, given the US's previous stance that Iran was hindering progress.
But here's where it gets controversial...
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized that Iran is the obstacle, yet Takht-Ravanchi asserts that the ball is in America's court. He believes that if the US is sincere, an agreement is within reach.
Trump's threats of strikes and military buildup in the region have added fuel to the fire, especially after Iran's violent response to anti-government protests. The US and Iran's indirect talks in Oman earlier this month seemed positive, but Takht-Ravanchi cautions that it's too early to judge.
Iran's willingness to dilute its enriched uranium is a significant sign of compromise. At near weapons-grade levels, this move could ease suspicions of Iran's nuclear ambitions.
"We are ready to discuss our program and its related issues if the US is willing to talk about sanctions," Takht-Ravanchi said. He added that Iran is open to shipping out its highly enriched uranium, similar to the 2015 nuclear deal.
Russia, a key player in the 2015 accord, has offered to accept Iran's uranium again. Other proposals, like Tehran's offer to temporarily suspend nuclear enrichment, are also on the table.
One of Iran's main demands is to focus solely on the nuclear file, and Takht-Ravanchi believes the US has come to this conclusion too. This represents a potential breakthrough, as Iran has viewed Washington's demands for zero enrichment as a deal-breaker.
"The issue of zero enrichment is no longer on the table for Iran," Takht-Ravanchi clarified, contradicting Trump's recent comments.
Iran's negotiator also stands firm on refusing to discuss its ballistic missile program with American negotiators, a key demand of Israel.
"Our missiles have protected us from attacks, so how can we accept losing our defensive capabilities?" Takht-Ravanchi asked.
The senior diplomat expressed concern over Trump's conflicting messages, noting the interest in negotiations but also his focus on regime change.
"We hear one thing publicly and another privately. It's confusing," he said.
Takht-Ravanchi also questioned the US military buildup, warning of the traumatic consequences of another war.
"If we feel threatened, we will respond. It's not wise to think about such a scenario, as the entire region would suffer," he added.
Iran has made it clear that US military bases are legitimate targets, as seen in previous attacks. With over 40,000 US soldiers now in the region, Takht-Ravanchi believes the game has changed.
Intensive discussions are ongoing between Iranian and regional officials, all urging Trump to avoid a war with far-reaching consequences.
"There's almost unanimous agreement in the region against war," Takht-Ravanchi stated.
Iran remains cautious, having been disappointed by the lack of progress in last year's talks. The presence of Jared Kushner at the last talks was seen as a positive sign by Iran.
While many observers remain skeptical, Takht-Ravanchi is hopeful that a deal is possible.
"We will do our best, but the US must prove its sincerity too," he concluded.
Will Iran and the US find common ground? Only time will tell, but the potential for a breakthrough is there. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!
