Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the nuclear file and related sanctions will be discussed during a second phase of negotiations.
This shift in the diplomatic timeline suggests a strategic effort to secure immediate relief on specific security and financial issues before tackling the more complex nuclear dispute. By decoupling the nuclear file from the initial agreement, both parties may be attempting to build trust through smaller, more achievable wins.
Araghchi said the negotiations are structured into two phases [1]. The first phase begins with the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. [2]. This initial stage involves a temporary agreement that includes the lifting of a blockade, issues regarding Hormuz, and the release of funds [3].
The minister said the agreement consists of 14 items [1]. Discussions regarding the nuclear file and sanctions have been postponed to the second phase to allow for a 60-day period of further work [1].
"The negotiations are in two phases, the first beginning with the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the United States, then conducting negotiations to reach a final agreement," Araghchi said [2].
Regarding the status of Iran's nuclear capabilities, Araghchi said that Iran does not possess any undeclared uranium enrichment facilities [4]. This assertion comes as the two nations navigate the transition from the initial memorandum to the final negotiations scheduled for the coming weeks.
This structured approach aims to create a bridge toward a final agreement by addressing immediate tensions first. The 60-day window provides a buffer for technical experts and diplomats to refine the terms of the nuclear deal without the immediate pressure of the first phase's implementation.
“The negotiations are structured into two phases”
The decision to defer nuclear discussions indicates a 'sequenced' diplomatic strategy. By prioritizing a memorandum of understanding and the release of frozen assets first, Iran and the U.S. are attempting to lower the immediate temperature of the conflict. This approach reduces the risk of a total collapse of talks by ensuring some tangible benefits are realized before the more contentious issues of uranium enrichment and long-term sanctions are addressed.
