In a recent statement, the office of Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized that any future negotiations must address the limitation of ballistic missile capabilities and the cessation of support for what is referred to as the “Iranian axis.” This term relates to Iran’s backing of militant groups such as Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, and Hamas, operating within Palestinian territories.
Netanyahu and former U.S. President Donald Trump last convened in December, marking their latest meeting.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for nuclear discussions to proceed in a composed environment, free from tension and threats. He underscored the need for a calm atmosphere to resolve critical issues.
Araghchi announced that diplomats involved in the negotiations would return to their respective capitals, indicating that this phase of talks has concluded.
Uncertainty persists regarding the specific terms Iran is prepared to discuss in these negotiations.
Iran has consistently stated that the discussions will focus exclusively on its nuclear program, leaving other issues off the table.
However, the Al Jazeera satellite news network reported that diplomats from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar offered Iran a proposal in which Tehran would halt enrichment for three years, send its highly enriched uranium out of the country and pledge to “not initiate the use of ballistic missiles”.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday the talks needed to include all those issues.
Israel, a close US ally, believes Iran is pursuing a nuclear weapon and wants its program scrapped, though Iran has insisted that its atomic plans are for peaceful purposes.
Israel also wants a halt to Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for militant groups in the region.
Araghchi, speaking at a forum in Qatar, accused Israel of destabilising the region, saying that it “breaches sovereignties, it assassinates official dignitaries, it conducts terrorist operations, it expands its reach in multiple theatres”.
He criticised Israel’s treatment of Palestinians and called for “comprehensive and targeted sanctions against Israel, including an immediate arms embargo.”
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
