Sat Feb 08 20:44:07 UTC 2025: ## Iran Rejects US “Maximum Pressure” Approach to Nuclear Talks

**Tehran, Iran** – Iran has firmly rejected the United States’ “maximum pressure” policy as a basis for negotiations on its nuclear program, stating that such an approach would constitute surrender rather than genuine dialogue. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared on Saturday that sanctions relief requires negotiations, but not under the framework of continued sanctions. This stance follows a similar rejection from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who warned against negotiating with the US, citing past negative experiences.

The comments come amidst renewed tensions following US President Donald Trump’s call for a “verified nuclear peace agreement” and the re-imposition of sanctions targeting entities involved in the shipment of Iranian oil to China. Washington announced these new financial penalties on Thursday, further intensifying the pressure campaign.

Araghchi emphasized Iran’s unwillingness to negotiate while simultaneously facing new sanctions. He reiterated Iran’s position that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only. The 2015 nuclear deal, from which the US withdrew in 2018 under the Trump administration, serves as a point of contention, with Iran highlighting the US’s broken commitment as a reason for its current stance. While Iran maintains a willingness to negotiate, it demands an end to the “maximum pressure” strategy before any meaningful discussions can take place.

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