Iran insists on missile program in talks with US and other nations

Iranian officials indicate willingness to discuss nuclear issues in potential second round of US talks, but draw red line on ballistic missiles.

An adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Shamkhani, stated that the Islamic Republic’s missile capabilities are non-negotiable during an event marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. This statement comes after a recent round of mediated talks between the US and Iranian officials in Oman failed to yield a breakthrough. The talks were focused on nuclear issues, with Iran seeking exclusive discussion on this topic.

According to Al Jazeera’s Ali Hashem, reporting from Tehran, Iran is willing to engage in nuclear discussions but not ballistic missile programme. “The Iranians are saying we are ready to talk nuclear, but we are not ready to talk ballistics,” Hashem stated. US officials have expressed concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile programme and regional alliances.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that his country is prepared to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. However, he added that excessive demands would not be met. “Our Iran will not yield in the face of aggression,” Pezeshkian said.

Ali Larijani, another senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, visited Qatar and discussed US talks with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The discussion was described as positive by Larijani, who stated that Iran remains in contact with “all sides” about a possible second round of US talks.

Iranian experts have expressed concerns over the potential for renewed conflict with Israel, following last June’s 12-day war that resulted in the deaths of 610 people. Hassan Ahmadian, an associate professor at the University of Tehran, stated that Iran views its ballistic missile programme as critical to its defence and is unwilling to compromise on this issue.

US President Donald Trump has sent mixed signals on the negotiations, stating that a deal must be reached or military action will follow. Trump also mentioned sending a second aircraft carrier towards Iran, which has been met with concern from Iranian officials.

Source: Al Jazeera