Former Iranian diplomat Ali Majedi warns that Iran risks becoming a bargaining chip in U.S. negotiations with Russia and Europe if it fails to engage in talks. Meanwhile, Iran’s uranium enrichment activities provoke concern from the IAEA, and internal debates about negotiating with the U.S. continue amidst a backdrop of strict sanctions and economic struggles.
In the latest update from The Farda Briefing, hosted by RFE/RL correspondent Kian Sharifi, concerns grow in Iran regarding its potential marginalization in negotiations between the United States, Russia, and European powers. Former Iranian Ambassador Ali Majedi warns that failing to secure a deal with the U.S. could lead Tehran to be utilized as a bargaining chip in greater geopolitical discussions. Amidst this backdrop, Iran’s production of near weapons-grade uranium is escalating, raising alarms from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Tehran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity has reportedly risen significantly, indicating Iran is close to attaining weapons-grade levels. Economically, Iran faces dire conditions; rising living costs coincide with tightening U.S. sanctions, further complicating any prospects for negotiation. Majedi stresses that Iran’s situation may worsen if it continues to resist negotiations, as Washington could collaborate with European allies to reinstate UN sanctions on Tehran.
The nuclear deal of 2015 lifted sanctions on Iran, but following the Trump administration’s withdrawal in 2018, these sanctions have been re-imposed. As the formal expiration of the nuclear deal approaches in 2025, world powers face a diminishing window of opportunity to act. Recent statements from E3 countries reflect increasing openness to sanction discussions due to Iran’s advancing nuclear program.
In an interview, Mehrzad Boroujerdi reiterated Majedi’s views, asserting that Iran needs to engage in discussions or risk being excluded from critical decisions affecting its future. Meanwhile, some factions in Iran remain skeptical of negotiations, citing the concessions required by the Trump administration as a reason for caution. The internal debate over the merits of negotiating with the U.S. remains contentious, as hardliners critique the approach touted by advocates for dialogue.
Majedi’s cautionary stance invites Iranian leadership to reconsider their geopolitical strategy amidst a rapidly changing international environment. The current situation underscores the necessity for Iran to evaluate its position deeply in the face of possible negotiations involving its fate.
In conclusion, the growing fears within Iran regarding its isolation in international negotiations call for urgent attention from its leaders. Ali Majedi’s warning highlights the precarious position Iran faces should it choose to avoid engagement with the United States. As sanctions tighten and the nuclear clock ticks down, Iran must reconsider its strategy and explore possible avenues for negotiation to safeguard its interests.
Original Source: www.rferl.org
