US President Donald Trump on April 27 declared that Iran could actively contact if it wants to negotiate the end of the 2-month war, while emphasizing that Tehran is not allowed to possess nuclear weapons. He said that the conditions for reaching an agreement are very clear and there is no reason to meet if this request is not met.
Speaking on television, President Trump said Iran could come directly or make a phone call, emphasizing that the US has safe communication channels. The statement was made in the context of diplomatic efforts being hampered when he canceled the trip of special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad, saying that the proposal from Iran was not enough.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is traveling between intermediate countries such as Pakistan and Oman before arriving in Russia, expected to meet with President Vladimir Putin. Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said the trip was aimed at promoting national interests amid external pressure.
Iran continues to demand that the US remove barriers, including sea blockades, before conducting substantive negotiations. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed that Tehran will not participate in negotiations imposed under pressure.
Disagreements between the two sides not only revolve around the nuclear program but also related to controlling the Strait of Hormuz and regional issues. The US wants to limit Iran's influence over allied forces, while Tehran demands the lifting of sanctions and the cessation of military actions.
Although the temporary ceasefire has reduced fighting, no agreement has been reached to end the conflict. The deadlock has caused oil prices to fluctuate, transportation through the Strait of Hormuz to be disrupted, and global economic prospects to be affected.
Domestically, Mr. Trump faces pressure as approval ratings fall, while Iran takes advantage of controlling important energy transport routes to increase its negotiating position.
