Unclear Agenda Clouds Prospects for Iran-US Nuclear Talks

According to Saed News, Mohsen Jalilvand, an expert in international affairs, told Etemad Online reporter regarding speculations about the appointment of a mediator in the potential new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States:
“The reality is that many mediators have been suggested, but in my opinion, either Qatar and the UAE will play this role, or more likely, Oman, because Iran trusts Oman more. However, it seems that the differences between Tehran and Washington have deepened.”

In response to a question about the likelihood of talks taking place in the near future, he said:
“Although it is heard that talks might be held in Norway or other places, the reality is that it must first be clear what issues will be negotiated. Therefore, if a negotiation is to take place, there must be a defined agenda. We should not just say ‘negotiation’ without knowing what exactly will be discussed. In my opinion, the problem between the US and the West with us is a strategic and paradigmatic challenge. This disagreement is fundamental and deep.”

Jalilvand added:
“But the more important point is the issue of Israel. This means that the view of the US and the West on the matter is through the lens of Israel. As long as Washington continues to see Israel’s existence as threatened by Iran, disagreements between Iran and the West will persist. Sometimes our nuclear program is used as an excuse in this context, sometimes the missile program, and sometimes human rights issues.”