Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called recent diplomatic talks with the United States a "step forward" this Sunday, while firmly rejecting military pressure amid ongoing nuclear negotiations. The announcement comes three days after indirect discussions in Oman's capital Muscat – a rare moment of dialogue in years of strained relations.
"We respond to respect with respect," Pezeshkian declared, emphasizing Tehran's commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful means. The president reaffirmed Iran's stance on nuclear development as "legal and principled" under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi struck a defiant tone at a national conference, stating: "Uranium enrichment is our legitimate right. If war is imposed on us, we will defend ourselves." His comments followed U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group in the Gulf – a show of force Tehran called "not intimidating."
Despite tensions, both sides appear to keep doors open for diplomacy. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed plans for fresh talks this week, while Araghchi noted: "Negotiation will only succeed when Iran's rights are acknowledged."
🔑 Why it matters: With global oil prices fluctuating and regional stability at stake, these talks could shape security dynamics across the Middle East. Students and young professionals are watching closely as 2026 becomes a pivotal year for nuclear diplomacy.
