Mediators Urge Iran to Grant Nuclear Concessions to Secure Ceasefire

Ankara (ANTARA) - Mediators are urging Iran to provide concessions regarding its nuclear programme in an effort to revive ceasefire negotiations with the United States.

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, as cited by Anadolu on Monday, this intermediary initiative follows US President Donald Trump’s rejection of an Iranian proposal for a seven-day ceasefire intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US blockade on Iranian ports.

Mediators view this as an attempt, albeit one with a slim chance of success, to encourage Iran to take steps regarding its nuclear programme. So far, Iran has shown no signs of being prepared to discuss the matter.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday (27/9) that his country remains open to negotiations but will respond if military actions resume.

“We are fully prepared if war continues. We will be firm in the face of any new aggression in any form, even if it leads to an apocalyptic war. However, at the same time, we are ready for the diplomatic path. The choice lies with President Trump,” said Araghchi.

Gulf officials noted that Iran wants the US to provide concessions first before negotiations proceed.

The Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, whose country acts as a messenger between the US and Iran, stated that the conflict is becoming increasingly difficult to resolve.

“This conflict is very complex,” he said.

However, US officials stated that Trump no longer wishes to return to the agreement. The US has also tightened sanctions and maintained its blockade on Iran.

A senior Middle East official involved in the negotiations suggested that Iran could offer compromises regarding its nuclear programme. However, this would require firm guarantees that Israel will not resume attacks once an agreement between the US and Iran is reached.