Tehran sends formal response via Oman, reiterates indirect talks possible despite ongoing U.S. pressure.
Iran has formally replied to a confidential letter from U.S. President Donald Trump calling for a new nuclear deal, reaffirming that indirect negotiations remain possible despite ongoing military threats and sanctions imposed by Washington.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Tehran sent its response through Oman, a traditional mediator between the two rivals, emphasizing Iran’s refusal of direct dialogue under current U.S. pressure but leaving room for indirect diplomatic channels. “Our policy is still to not engage in direct negotiations while under maximum pressure and military threats,” Araghchi told state media, stressing that “indirect negotiations can continue.”
Trump’s original letter, delivered to Iranian officials by senior Emirati diplomat Anwar Gargash on March 12, called for Tehran to reach a fresh agreement after Trump withdrew from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 and imposed severe economic sanctions. The details of Trump’s proposal remain confidential, though it is understood to have included a stark warning: negotiate or risk military action.
Iran’s carefully measured reply underscores its cautious stance, offering indirect diplomacy as an option without appearing to yield under pressure. Kamal Kharrazi, a senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, reinforced this stance, declaring Tehran had “not closed all doors” and was prepared for indirect dialogue aimed at evaluating the U.S. position and clearly outlining Iranian conditions.
With tensions still running high, Tehran’s guarded openness to indirect talks could provide a narrow diplomatic path forward, though significant challenges remain. The outcome hinges on whether both sides can navigate mutual distrust and deep-seated hostilities to prevent escalation and renew meaningful dialogue.
