Description: The fourth round of nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran has ended with contradictory statements that sent distancing sentiment from the envoys of both countries. The US side remained moderate and stated that even though no significant progress was made, there were several concrete objectives which have been discussed as the countries also closed the widening rift in bilateral relations. Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has stated that the US side is leading a deceiving dual negotiating policy by giving statements to the media which directly contradict their demands within the negotiating frame. However, Araghchi also labeled the fourth round as extensively progressive and reiterated Iran’s red lines which have so far been drawn around the country’s right to enrich uranium for development of civilian nuclear – powered energy plants and their ballistic missile program. He also stated that the development of nuclear weapons and capacities wasn’t within his country’s military doctrine despite the US position. US Special envoy Steve Witkoff has repeatedly stated through interviews and podcasts in the past week that the US aimed at debilitating Iran’s enrichment program entirely and stop every attempt to develop any nuclear – powered capacities. Both camps hinted a fifth meeting in the near future with negotiations continuing over the red lines from both countries.
Impact: The mixed signals coming from the fourth meeting indicate potential progress in the negotiations as both sides are starting to concessionally collide over crucial issues regarding the nuclear program and the sanctions. Iran’s alleged straightforwardness stipulates the regime’s fortified position regarding their nuclear program, while the US, by restating their demands in the media, while allegedly working a different angle through the negotiations, are attempting to additionally press Iran towards red line compromises. The fourth round also raises questions over resolving Iran’s red lines, an issue the US has approached with counterclaims and demands only. The involvement from international organizations such as the IAEA as well as the E3, comprised of France, Germany and the UK, is yet to be determined as the fourth round of nuclear talks also hinted on grinding opposition from both sides which could potentially compromise future efforts made for tipping the concessionary scale.