Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has unveiled the highlights of the ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington, emphasizing that the proposed understandings include a memorandum of understanding aimed at halting warfare on various fronts. The nuclear issue has been postponed to a subsequent stage in a two-phase negotiation process.
Speaking to Iranian media, Araghchi clarified that the agreement is not yet finalized, noting that certain clauses remain under discussion and may undergo amendments before reaching a final draft.
The Iranian foreign minister confirmed that the first phase focuses on establishing a ceasefire and providing mutual guarantees. Issues related to Iran's nuclear program will be deferred to the second phase of talks.
He highlighted that the core of the agreement is a commitment by parties not to resort to war or threats of force, while respecting the sovereignty of states and refraining from interfering in their internal affairs, forming the basis for a sustainable understanding between the sides.
Regarding regional issues, Araghchi stressed that the anticipated memorandum will address various tension hotspots in the region, including Lebanon, assuring that Iran will not abandon its allies nor leave Lebanon to face challenges alone.
He also addressed the controversy over leaked agreement texts, explaining that many circulated documents cannot be considered final or credible, as the Iranian and American sides have not approved most of what has been shared to date.
Araghchi accused regional parties of attempting to obstruct the diplomatic path, arguing that certain factions are unwilling for the current understandings to succeed and are working to sabotage them through political and media pressure.
Concluding his remarks, Araghchi assured that Iran will not compromise its national interests and that reaching any agreement requires an acceptable level of satisfaction among all parties, emphasizing that threats and pressure have not proven effective with Tehran in previous negotiation stages.
Araghchi's statements reflect ongoing diplomatic efforts towards a broader understanding between Iran and the United States, while several sensitive issues still require further negotiation before announcing a final and comprehensive agreement.