Iran to Engage in Nuclear Talks with E3 Nations Ahead of Trump’s Return
Iran will hold discussions with France, Britain, and Germany on Monday and Tuesday, just days before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump assumes office. These talks follow a prior meeting in November in Geneva and are part of ongoing consultations regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
The German foreign ministry clarified that these are “not negotiations,” a sentiment echoed by Iran, which described the discussions as “consultations.” According to Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, the primary focus is on lifting sanctions while addressing topics raised by the European powers, collectively known as the E3.
France’s foreign ministry emphasized the importance of seeking a diplomatic resolution, stating the meeting highlights ongoing efforts to address challenges posed by Iran’s nuclear activities.
The talks come amid heightened scrutiny of Iran’s nuclear program, especially with Trump’s imminent return to the White House. During his presidency, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and imposed a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran, leading Tehran to gradually roll back its commitments under the agreement.
Efforts to restore the JCPOA have faced significant obstacles, with European powers expressing concerns over Iran’s growing stockpile of enriched uranium. French President Emmanuel Macron recently warned that Iran’s actions are “bringing us very close to the breaking point.” Tehran dismissed these claims as “baseless.”
The E3 countries have criticized Iran for enriching uranium to unprecedented levels without credible civilian justification. The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that Iran’s enrichment has reached 60%, approaching the 90% threshold needed for nuclear weapons. Tehran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and denies any intent to develop atomic weapons.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have both expressed a willingness to revive the JCPOA. Araghchi recently reiterated the need for mutual trust-building, stating, “The formula remains the same: trust in Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions.” With the JCPOA snapback mechanism set to expire in October, diplomatic efforts have gained urgency to prevent further escalation.
