In a significant outreach amid swirling nuclear negotiations, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke over the phone with IAEA head Rafael Grossi on Sunday. The Foreign Ministry shared insights from the Saturday discussion, shedding light on indirect US-Iran dynamics.
Talks revolved around fresh progress in backchannel communications between Tehran and Washington. Araghchi highlighted Iran’s proactive involvement, reaffirming dedication to diplomatic channels for protecting peaceful nuclear pursuits aligned with NPT and global norms.
Praising Geneva negotiations as constructive, Grossi pledged IAEA assistance in advancing the talks’ structure. The duo underscored mutual participation and open channels as pathways to a durable resolution.
This follows their Wednesday conversation on Geneva results and procedural aspects. Iran eyes finalizing a draft for US representative Steve Witkoff soon, paving way for substantive discussions in about seven days. Regional issues surfaced too, as Iran advocated balanced outcomes.
Recall February 16: Araghchi’s pre-second-round Geneva huddle with IAEA officials served as a tactical briefing before US encounters. It sparked global buzz on Iran’s positioning.
Araghchi later tweeted his intent for a fair agreement in Geneva. With Oman facilitating—first in Muscat, then Geneva—initial vibes were optimistic per Araghchi, tackling nuclear matters and sanctions head-on.
Yet US rhetoric soured the mood, notably Trump’s ultimatums in a recent address. As these phone links strengthen, the international community watches closely for signs of de-escalation or deadlock in this high-stakes nuclear saga.