Tehran refuses negotiations “under pressure,” flags nuclear rights, sanctions relief and Strait of Hormuz as major sticking points
Tehran: Iran has declined to participate in the next round of talks with the United States, signalling a fresh setback in efforts to ease tensions. Officials in Tehran made it clear that negotiations cannot proceed “under the shadow of threats,” particularly after a naval blockade near the Strait of Hormuz and the reported detention of an Iranian cargo vessel by US forces.
The standoff reflects deep divisions on several core issues. First, the nuclear programme remains the most contentious point. Washington is pushing for a complete halt, while Tehran insists any limits must be temporary and preserve its right to civilian nuclear use. US demands for Iran to hand over its enriched uranium stockpile have also been firmly rejected.
In addition, tensions over maritime access continue to rise. Iran has indicated it will maintain restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz unless the US lifts its blockade on Iranian ports, effectively linking regional trade routes to diplomatic progress.
Economic concerns form another major hurdle. Iranian officials are seeking sanctions relief and the release of approximately $20 billion in frozen assets as part of any agreement. Furthermore, Tehran has raised the issue of war-related damages, reportedly demanding compensation running into hundreds of billions of dollars.
Taken together, these demands highlight the widening gap between both sides. As a result, prospects for a breakthrough remain uncertain, with neither side showing signs of softening its core positions.
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