German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed issues related to the nuclear deal during a phone call with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.
The Iranian presidency stated earlier that Rouhani had a phone call with Merkel to address the nuclear agreement and the regional situation. Rouhani emphasized that if Europeans wish to maintain the nuclear deal, they must demonstrate this practically, noting that adding new issues to the nuclear deal is not possible. He rejected the continuation of the nuclear agreement while sanctions are still in place and parties are not adhering to their commitments. Rouhani pointed out that the agreement is a document endorsed by the UN Security Council and resulted from long efforts by Iran and six major countries, thus it is not subject to change. He asserted that the only way to preserve the nuclear deal is through the lifting of unjust US sanctions and Washington's return to the agreement.
The Iranian president mentioned that the Iranian government is obligated to further reduce Tehran's nuclear commitments in response to sanctions and the other party's failure to comply with the nuclear deal, affirming that Iran will return to fulfilling all its commitments in the nuclear deal if sanctions are lifted. Rouhani highlighted the importance of peace and security in the region, considering that the crises in the region stem from foreign presence and the spread of terrorism. He stated, "The solution to the region’s problems lies in initiatives, solutions, and regional dialogues, and the countries of the region must decide their fate without foreign interference."
Rouhani also stressed the necessity of working to find a solution to the Yemeni crisis and putting an end to the humanitarian disaster there. For her part, Chancellor Angela Merkel confirmed that Germany and the other partners in the nuclear deal are very interested in preserving it. Merkel urged President Rouhani to send positive messages to build trust and enhance the opportunities for a diplomatic solution. Notably, this is the first contact between Rouhani and a leader of the European Troika since Biden took office.
