No nuclear talks without implementation of interim deal, Iran's Araghchi says

What Happened

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, speaking on state TV on Friday, declared that nuclear negotiations with the United States would not proceed unless a proposed interim deal is implemented first. According to Araghchi, the interim deal must include reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending conflicts on multiple fronts. He added that a memorandum of understanding has not yet been signed and could still change. Araghchi further asserted that management of the Strait of Hormuz would not revert to pre-war arrangements, that sovereignty over the strait belongs jointly to Iran and Oman, and that Iran would secure safe passage for ships through the waterway.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Araghchi’s conditions expand the scope of nuclear negotiations beyond enrichment and sanctions relief to encompass Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz—a globally critical oil transit chokepoint—and its role in regional conflicts. By tying talks to an interim deal on these fronts, Iran is signaling a harder bargaining posture under President Pezeshkian, potentially protracting the diplomatic standoff while advancing its nuclear program. The mention of Oman as co-sovereign underscores Muscat’s longstanding role as a mediator and strategic partner, and may foreshadow Oman-facilitated backchannel discussions.

Watch For

Monitor for a formal U.S. response to Araghchi’s preconditions, any draft or signed memorandum of understanding, and Omani diplomatic activity. Concrete indicators include changes in Strait of Hormuz shipping security, statements from CENTCOM or the E3, and the timing of the next IAEA Board of Governors report or meeting. Also watch for any adjustments to U.S. sanctions waivers or Oman-mediated talks in the coming weeks.