Iran's Top Diplomat Insists Power Lies in Ability to Reject 'Great Powers' Amid US Nuclear Talks

Kathmandu. Iran's top diplomat on Sunday asserted that Tehran's power stems from its 'ability to say no to great powers,' presenting a hardline stance toward US negotiations. The comment comes as dialogue continues with the United States over its nuclear program and against a backdrop of escalating domestic protests.

Speaking to diplomats at a summit in Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signaled that Iran would maintain its insistence on the right to enrich uranium. This issue was at the center of the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict and intense disputes with US President Donald Trump.

Although Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described talks held in Oman on Friday as 'a step forward,' Araghchi's remarks suggest that future negotiations will not be easy. Meanwhile, the United States has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, warships, and fighter jets to the Middle East, which the Trump administration views as a means of pressure.

Araghchi stated that the Islamic Republic's strength lies in its capacity to stand against bullying, domination, and external pressure. Using the term 'nuclear bomb' symbolically, he claimed that Iran is not aiming to build any bomb, but that fear is generated precisely because of its ability to reject powerful nations.

Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful. However, according to Western countries and the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran had an organized military program related to bomb development until 2003. Iran is currently enriching uranium up to 60 percent, which is slightly below weapons-grade.

President Pezeshkian mentioned on social media that the talks, mediated by regional friendly nations, represented progress, stating that dialogue is Iran's strategy for a peaceful resolution. However, he made it clear that the Iranian nation will not accept the language of force.

It remains unclear when and where the second phase of talks will take place. The presence of Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command, in Oman during the talks is being viewed as a signal of US military pressure.

Araghchi recalled experiences of US aggression during past negotiations, warning that it is uncertain where the situation will lead if they take a step back in the talks.