Iran to hold nuclear talks with three European powers

Thu Nov 28 21:43:15 UTC 2024: ## Iran to Hold Nuclear Talks Amidst IAEA Censure and Trump’s Return

**Tehran, Iran –** Iran will engage in nuclear talks with Britain, France, and Germany on Friday, November 29th, following a recent censure by the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA resolution, backed by the US, criticized Iran’s lack of cooperation on nuclear issues. This comes as US President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office, having previously pursued a “maximum pressure” policy against Iran.

Iran’s defiant response to the censure included the launch of advanced centrifuges to increase its enriched uranium stockpile. However, the willingness to engage in talks with European powers suggests a desire to avoid further pressure from both the incoming Trump administration and European nations. Concerns exist in Tehran about a potential “double disaster” scenario of renewed pressure from both sides.

The talks will be attended by Iranian diplomat Majid Takht-Ravanchi, who will meet with Enrique Mora of the EU beforehand. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned of growing frustration in Tehran over unfulfilled commitments regarding sanctions relief, potentially leading to a reconsideration of Iran’s nuclear policy. While Araghchi stated that Iran has no intention of exceeding 60% uranium enrichment, he acknowledged internal debate on whether their current nuclear doctrine is sufficient.

Iran maintains its right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and insists it has no intention of developing nuclear weapons. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a fatwa prohibiting their use. However, Iran’s enrichment level of 60% (close to the 90% needed for a bomb) is significantly higher than the 3.67% limit set by the 2015 nuclear deal, which is set to expire in October 2025. The IAEA resolution urged Iran to comply fully with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The upcoming talks will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of Iran’s nuclear program and its relationship with the international community.