Iran and the U.S. concluded a second round of nuclear talks in Rome, described as successful and constructive. The discussions, led by Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, focused on Iran’s nuclear program and set the stage for a third round of negotiations. Israel raised concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while Iran seeks a balanced agreement based on nine core principles.
On Saturday, April 12, Iran’s state television announced the successful conclusion of the second round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States in Rome. Led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, these discussions were characterized as “constructive” and centered around Iran’s nuclear program, a significant point of contention with Western nations.
The negotiations also aimed to establish a timeline for ongoing discussions and potentially pave the way for a new agreement. A third round of talks is already scheduled for next Saturday. Prior to the Rome meeting, Mr. Araghchi expressed Iran’s openness to pursuing a peaceful resolution to the nuclear issue, indicating that a successful agreement could be reached if the U.S. adopted a realistic approach.
Israeli officials have expressed concerns that the talks should not result in an agreement that fails to ensure Iran will not gain nuclear weapons capabilities. On the same day, Ali Shamkhani, a political advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, mentioned that Iranian negotiators were granted “full discretion” to negotiate with a mandate for a comprehensive agreement grounded in nine core principles.
These principles include seriousness, assurance, mutual balance, removal of sanctions, rejection of the Libya/Emirates model, avoidance of threats, promptness, containment of nuisances such as Israel, and facilitation of investment. Shamkhani stated that Iran was seeking a balanced agreement rather than surrendering in negotiations. The talks follow a letter from President Donald Trump to Ayatollah Khamenei, advocating for a dialogue after the U.S. withdrew from the previous nuclear agreement in 2018, leading to Iran’s call for renewed discussions.
In summary, the second round of nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S. concluded successfully, highlighting a constructive atmosphere and the potential for future negotiations. Iran has emphasized its willingness to seek a balanced agreement, while concerns from Israeli officials remain regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The upcoming third round of talks will further address these critical issues.
Original Source: shafaq.com
