Lucknow – In a sharp rebuke to a recent American proposal concerning the nuclear deal, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has publicly denounced it as contradictory and fraudulent. Speaking during an open parliamentary session in Tehran, Qalibaf criticized the proposal for its conspicuous absence of any mention regarding the lifting of sanctions against Iran.
Qalibaf revealed that the proposal was put forth during indirect talks between Tehran and Washington, mediated by Oman, at the end of May. He reiterated Iran’s willingness to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its nuclear program but emphasized that, in return, Iran demands guaranteed economic benefits, relief from sanctions, and the assured right to uranium enrichment.
The Speaker unequivocally stated that the omission of sanctions relief in the American proposal demonstrates Washington’s insincere approach, suggesting it is merely a tactic of pressure politics. Qalibaf also cautioned the US leadership that a genuine agreement necessitates a fundamental shift in their stance. Furthermore, he took a jab at President Donald Trump, urging him to cease supporting the “failed policies” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
This strong condemnation from Tehran underscores the deep distrust and significant hurdles that remain in any potential revival of the nuclear deal. Iran’s insistence on comprehensive sanctions relief as a precondition for any agreement highlights the core divergence in positions between the two nations, suggesting a protracted and challenging path forward for diplomatic efforts.
