Iran Reports No Change in U.S. Sanctions Policy Amid Ongoing Tensions

Iran's Foreign Ministry announced on Monday that it has yet to observe any substantial shift in the U.S. stance regarding the removal of sanctions, as high-stakes negotiations continue between the two countries over Iran's nuclear program. The statement comes at a critical juncture in the talks, which aim to resolve longstanding tensions surrounding Iran's atomic ambitions.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei addressed reporters at a weekly press conference in Tehran, conveying a note of disappointment about the current trajectory of discussions. "I regret to inform you that the American side has not yet been willing to clarify this issue," he said, referencing the crucial matter of sanctions relief. Baghaei stressed that for Iran, it remains essential to obtain clear guarantees on how what he termed "oppressive sanctions" will be lifted. He emphasized, "It must be clear to us how the oppressive sanctions against the Iranian people will be lifted, to ensure that past experiences are not repeated."

Diplomatic efforts have intensified in recent days, with Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi serving as a key mediator. During a brief visit to Tehran on Saturday, Albusaidi reportedly presented components of a new U.S. proposal aimed at breaking the deadlock. Oman has long played a facilitating role in regional diplomacy, and hopes remain that its involvement could bring the two sides closer to consensus.

The latest round of indirect talks between Iranian and U.S. representatives concluded in Rome last month, marking the fifth such session since renewed efforts began. While negotiators have acknowledged modest progress on some fronts, major obstacles remain—chief among them, the scope and oversight of Iran's uranium enrichment activities. These differences continue to pose significant challenges to crafting a comprehensive agreement.

With both parties under pressure to reach a breakthrough, the coming weeks are likely to prove pivotal for the future of Iran’s nuclear program and the international response to it. Until there is a clear signal from Washington on sanction relief, Iranian officials say they remain wary of repeating past failures and are proceeding with caution in the ongoing dialogue.