Iranian lawmakers have accused the United States and Israel of attempting to use ongoing nuclear negotiations as a “strategic trap” against Iran, just days before a planned sixth round of talks between Tehran and Washington.
In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, members of Iran’s parliament expressed deep mistrust of the U.S. negotiating position, saying that Washington is not engaging in the talks in good faith.
“The U.S. is not serious in negotiations at all,” the statement read. “It has set the goal of talks as imposing its demands and has adopted offensive positions that are diametrically opposed to Iranians’ inalienable rights.”
At the heart of the dispute remains the issue of uranium enrichment — a key element of Iran’s nuclear program. While the U.S. has pushed for limits and strict oversight, Iranian officials have insisted that enrichment is non-negotiable and a sovereign right. The topic continues to be a major sticking point as both sides prepare for the upcoming round of talks.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking publicly on Monday, acknowledged that the two countries remain divided on several critical points, particularly uranium enrichment. Meanwhile, Iranian officials are preparing to present a counterproposal to the latest U.S. offer, which they have dismissed as lacking in detail and failing to address the lifting of economic sanctions.
“The only acceptable deal is one that permanently lifts all sanctions with the aim of achieving economic benefits for Iran,” the lawmakers added in their statement.
There also appears to be confusion over the timing of the next round of talks. While Trump indicated they would begin on Thursday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the negotiations are scheduled for Sunday in Oman. The divergence adds to the uncertainty surrounding the discussions, which are being closely watched by international observers.
The renewed dialogue follows years of tension after the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimposed heavy sanctions on Iran. Tehran has since expanded its nuclear activities, prompting global concern and a renewed push for diplomacy.
As the next round of talks approaches, Iranian lawmakers are warning that any attempt to pressure Tehran into concessions could derail negotiations altogether, further complicating efforts to revive a nuclear deal.
