What does Iran want from the negotiations over its nuclear program with the US? | DW News

Key Concepts:

• Nuclear Deal: An agreement between Iran and world powers (including the US) to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
• Sanctions Relief: The lifting or easing of economic sanctions imposed on Iran by the US and other countries.
• Iran's Nuclear Program: Iran's activities related to the development and production of nuclear materials and technology.
• Proxies: Groups or organizations supported by Iran in the region.
• JCPOA (2015 deal): The previous nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Current Status of Negotiations

• A third round of talks between Iran and the US regarding a new nuclear deal has begun in Oman.
• Iranian state TV reported the start of negotiations in Muscat, with both sides expected to hold in-depth discussions.
• The focus is on limiting Iran's nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of some economic sanctions imposed by the US.
• Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson described the talks as continuing "in a serious atmosphere" on X.
• An Iranian official told Reuters that the expert-level negotiations are "difficult, complicated, and serious."
• Previous rounds were considered positive by both sides, with discussions focusing on details.
• Iran is particularly emphasizing the lifting of sanctions.

Obstacles to Progress

• Reports suggest that Iran's missile program is an obstacle to progress.
• Iran has previously stated that it will not negotiate on its defense capabilities.

Iran's Objectives

• Iran desires an agreement, recognizing that other options are not favorable.
• The Islamic Republic is in a vulnerable position due to domestic and international crises and challenges.
• Its proxies in the region have been weakened, and the threat of war looms.
• An agreement that preserves Iran's nuclear program would be a relief, preventing a complete dismantling.

Iranian Public Opinion

• The Iranian people experienced the 2015 deal (JCPOA).
• Even with the JCPOA, experts say the quality of life for Iranian people did not improve, nor did the social situation and freedom in Iran.
• The government used additional resources to strengthen its proxies and suppress its citizens.
• There are varying views on a new agreement: some are waiting for the final result, some are in favor, and others are pessimistic.
• A significant group of Iranians views any agreement as a failure, questioning why they should pay the price for the Islamic Republic's confrontational policies with the West, which they believe have only led to suffering and the regime's retreat.

Conclusion

The negotiations between Iran and the US are complex and face significant obstacles, including disagreements over Iran's missile program. While Iran seeks sanctions relief and preservation of its nuclear program, the Iranian public's experience with the previous deal has led to skepticism about the potential benefits of a new agreement. The regime is facing domestic and international pressure, making the outcome of the negotiations uncertain.