Iran Describes US Nuclear Talks as 'Step Forward' but Rejects Pressure
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described recent mediated nuclear talks with the United States as "a step forward," crediting mediation by friendly regional governments.
Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran seeks peaceful solutions to disputes but will not accept coercion, stating that Tehran continues to pursue its legal nuclear rights. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said negotiations can succeed only if Iran's rights are respected and added that Tehran will not abandon uranium enrichment even under pressure.
The two countries began sensitive talks in Oman aimed at resolving long-running disputes over Iran's nuclear program, with officials confirming that discussions will continue. Oman has long played a mediating role between Washington and Tehran, hosting quiet negotiations during past periods of crisis and diplomatic stalemate.
However, disagreements over expanding the agenda beyond nuclear issues risk complicating diplomacy. Regional tensions have risen alongside increased U.S. military deployments, with both sides exchanging warnings while expressing cautious willingness to keep diplomatic channels open.
More in International
Pakistan Defense Minister: Aid to Afghan Wars Was Political Decision, Not Jihad
UN Awaits Clarity on US Payment of Dues Arrears
Afghan Asylum Seeker Found Guilty of Assaulting and Raping 12-Year-Old Girl in Britain
Indian Court Sentences Two Afghan Citizens to 10 Years for Heroin Smuggling
ReliablePakistan Defense Minister: Aid to Afghan Wars Was Political Decision, Not Jihad
Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said involvement in Afghan wars was politically motivated, not jihad, and accused the Taliban of sheltering TTP without providing security guarantees amid rising cross-border tensions.
ReliableUN Awaits Clarity on US Payment of Dues Arrears
The United Nations is awaiting specifics from the United States on the timing and amount of payments toward its substantial arrears to the UN budget, following a US pledge for an initial payment soon. UN officials highlighted the US owes over 95% of the arrears, amid warnings of financial collapse.
ReliableAfghan Asylum Seeker Found Guilty of Assaulting and Raping 12-Year-Old Girl in Britain
An Afghan asylum seeker named Ahmad Malakhel was convicted by a British court of raping a 12-year-old girl after abducting her in Nuneaton. The incident, reported by the BBC, also involved a co-accused who was acquitted.
ReliableIndian Court Sentences Two Afghan Citizens to 10 Years for Heroin Smuggling
A New Delhi court sentenced two Afghan nationals to 10 years imprisonment and fines after heroin was found hidden in shampoo and hair dye bottles in their luggage at Delhi airport following a flight from Dubai.