American and Iranian officials have launched a second round of indirect nuclear conferences in Rome as the Trump administration places diplomacy emphasis on possible military actions.
Special President’s envoy Steve Witkov is trying to set up a framework for negotiations with Foreign Minister Abbas Aragut with Saturday’s meeting, which will come a week after Washington and Tehran began indirect debates in Oman.
Last week’s discussion – seen the US and Iran speak from separate rooms through mediators – happened in Oman, which is friendly to both sides.
Saturday’s speech is being held at the home of the Ambassador of Omani in the Diplomatic District of Rome.
“The president was clear. Iran cannot have nuclear weapons or enrichment programs,” Witkov spokesman said. He told the Wall Street Journal Saturday. “As we continue to speak, we hope to improve the framework and timetables to address transactions that peacefully achieve the President’s objectives.”
The Iranian said, “A comprehensive agreement based on nine principles: not a severity, guarantee, balance, the Libyan/UAE model, but rather aversion to threats, avoid speed, eliminate offensive elements (such as Israel), promote investment, and the son of Western aide Ayatollahai Hamenei.
“Iran has sought a balanced agreement, not a surrender,” he said.
Witkov this week said the US is seeking a complete end to Iran’s nuclear program.
“The final arrangement requires the establishment of a framework for peace, stability and prosperity in the Middle East, meaning that Iran must halt and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization programme,” the envoy said Tuesday.
President Trump has previously said that if diplomacy fails, he will not rule out a military strike against Iran.
