A high-ranking Iranian official responded to Trump on Friday, describing his recent comments about the nuclear agreement as “confusing and contradictory.”
Trump stated to reporters while aboard Air Force One, after returning from the Middle East, that the U.S. had presented Iran with a formal proposal for a new nuclear deal and urged them to “move quickly.”
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi claimed that “Iran has not received written proposals from the United States, whether directly or indirectly,” in a post on Social Media Platform x. He expressed that the messages coming from the U.S. seemed mixed and contradictory.
“Nonetheless, Iran remains resolute. We uphold our rights, lift your sanctions, and we can reach a deal,” he added.
Earlier in the week, Trump mentioned that both nations were engaged in “very serious negotiations.” He also indicated a recent willingness for Middle Eastern countries to pursue civil nuclear programs, while maintaining that Tehran should not possess nuclear weapons.
On Friday, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s dedication to nuclear enrichment.
“Mark my words: Iran will not forfeit its hard-earned rights to enrich for peaceful purposes, rights that are granted to all other signatories of the [Non-Proliferation Treaty],” he remarked, referencing the International Nuclear Treaty.
Officials from both Iran and the U.S. have been meeting in recent weeks to discuss the agreement’s terms. During his first term, Trump had pulled the U.S. out of a deal made by former President Obama that provided sanctions relief in exchange for nuclear restrictions.
In an interview that aired on Fox News Friday evening, Trump reiterated his desire for a swift negotiation.
“Iran wants to trade with us, if you can believe it. And I’m okay with that,” he told host Brett Baier. “I think trade can be a way to settle scores and foster peace. I’ve told Iran that we can do business.”
“We don’t have much time,” he warned.
The Hill reached out to the White House for comments.
