Fri Apr 18 18:06:26 UTC 2025: ## Iran Casts Doubt on US Intentions Ahead of Crucial Nuclear Talks
**Moscow, April 18, 2025** – As a new round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States looms, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed skepticism about Washington’s intentions. Speaking alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, Araghchi stated that while Iran will participate in the negotiations scheduled for Saturday in Rome, “serious doubts” remain regarding US motivations. These talks, mediated by Oman, follow a high-level meeting last week—the first since the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018.
Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to a peaceful resolution regarding its nuclear program, but reiterated that key issues, including Iran’s uranium enrichment and regional influence, are non-negotiable. These positions were echoed earlier this week by the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which declared the country’s military capabilities as off-limits for discussion. The Iranian foreign minister also indicated that reaching an agreement depends on the US refraining from making unreasonable demands.
Lavrov pledged Russia’s support for a resolution that is acceptable to both sides, emphasizing that any agreement should solely focus on the nuclear issue. He cautioned against including extraneous matters, warning that doing so would create a “risky situation.”
Meanwhile, Israel reiterated its staunch opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, stating it possesses a clear plan to prevent this outcome. The statement was made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who reaffirmed the commitment of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other relevant bodies. The US and Western allies have long accused Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, a charge Tehran consistently denies. Russia, which has significantly strengthened its military ties with Iran since its invasion of Ukraine, played a significant role in the backdrop of these ongoing negotiations.
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