Iran’s nuclear negotiator Kazem Gharibabadi says Tehran is willing to return to talks with the US, but only if they are convinced the negotiations won’t be a cover for further military action.
Gharibabadi warned that US officials were discussing war plans with Israel while negotiating with Iran last month. He expressed “no trust” in the US, stating that Tehran needs to negotiate sanctions with Washington to avoid new ones, but doesn’t believe it will work.
Iran and European signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal will hold talks in Istanbul on Friday on the issue of “snapback” sanctions. Gharibabadi described these talks as “important,” but not “decisive.” He noted that even if an agreement is reached, there’s still time for Iran.
The US and E3 agreed to impose snapback sanctions by August 31 if no deal is reached. However, Gharibabadi suggested this was a soft deadline, noting the E3 had called Iranian foreign minister to express their desire to come to an arrangement.
Iran wants the Europeans to raise the possibility of extending the deadline for imposing snapback sanctions in exchange for Iran taking steps towards resuming UN inspector work and moving highly enriched uranium. Gharibabadi said it was “premature” to discuss this extension, citing difficulties in making progress with US officials who had changed positions multiple times during previous talks.
Gharibabadi made clear that a military operation may have always been the true intention of the Trump administration and could be the case again. Iran wants assurances on the US seriousness before returning to the negotiating table.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not yet requested access to three bombed nuclear facilities, Gharibabadi said, noting it would be “very dangerous” for inspectors to enter them.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/07/23/iran-nuclear-talks-us-e3