Mon Mar 24 16:06:04 UTC 2025: ## Iran Open to Indirect Talks with US, but Rejects Direct Negotiations

**Tehran, March 24, 2025** – Iran announced on Monday its willingness to engage in indirect talks with the United States regarding a new nuclear deal, following a letter from President Donald Trump demanding negotiations. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that while indirect negotiations are possible, direct talks are off the table until the U.S. changes its approach towards Iran.

Araghchi emphasized that Tehran will not participate in direct negotiations under duress, citing President Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy, which includes re-imposed sanctions following the U.S.’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement. That agreement limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

The U.S. letter, delivered on March 12th via a UAE envoy, reportedly called for nuclear negotiations and warned of potential military action if Iran refused. While Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected threats, Mr. Araghchi suggested the letter presented both threats and opportunities, prompting Iran’s openness to indirect talks.

U.S. West Asia envoy Steven Witkoff clarified that the letter’s intention was to avoid military conflict and foster trust, not to issue threats.

Indirect talks between Iran and the U.S. have previously occurred through intermediaries, including the Swiss embassy in Tehran and Oman. However, a previous channel, the Muscat process, is currently inactive. The ongoing situation remains complex, with significant international implications.

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