NIAC Statement on Iranian Foreign Minister’s Comments on Trump Letter
Washington, DC – NIAC Policy Director Ryan Costello issued the following statement regarding comments made by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s Letter to the Iranian Supreme Leader: “Araghchi’s comments shine a light on Trump’s early diplomatic approach to Iran, which has struck dueling notes of pressure and opportunities for mutual benefit through diplomacy. While the Supreme Leader rejected negotiations in response to the Trump’s administration’s reimposition of “maximum pressure,” Iran’s Foreign Minister appeared to crack the door open for talks. In signaling that Iran will not engage in direct negotiations with the U.S. while maximum pressure sanctions and military threats persist, Araghchi’s position does not discount the possibility that Iran and the U.S. could negotiate indirectly through mediators. “Both the U.S. and Iran have much to gain from direct negotiations and a deal, but seem more committed to appearing tough than doing what needs to be done to secure their interests. For the U.S., threats and sanctions are far more likely to turn Iran away from the negotiating table – and push toward war – than to convince Iran of the benefits of negotiation. Rather than continuing blindly down this path that will make