Iran has paid close attention to the Omani-mediated US-Houthi ceasefire deal. It is watching US President Donald Trump’s plans to visit the region and is seeking to continue talks with Washington. The Islamic Republic has also distanced itself from the Houthis’ attacks on Israel. Basically, Iran is playing a very cautious game.
The fourth round of talks between the US and Iran, which was supposed to take place this past Saturday, was postponed. This came as the Houthis escalated their attacks on Israel and, likely, as the terror group was about to come to the table for a deal with the US in Oman.
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has been angry about perceived changes in the White House’s approach to the talks. The US has appeared to harden its stance, demanding Iran’s nuclear program be dismantled completely. Iran will not agree to this condition; it refuses the “Libya model” whereby it would be stripped of its nuclear program.
Araghchi embarked on a trip to Pakistan this week while raging against the changes in US policy. He blamed Israel and pro-Israel voices for sabotaging the talks. Meanwhile, India was planning strikes on Pakistan as the Iranian diplomat arrived and then departed.
Now, Tehran says the date for the next talks with the US is being studied, Iranian state media noted. The report at IRNA quoted Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson saying, “As soon as the date and venue of the talks are finalized, the necessary information will be given by the Omani foreign minister, who acts as a mediator between Iran and the United States.” However, no specific date has been announced.
The Islamic Republic finds itself in the hot seat for a few issues. The UK has arrested seven Iranians accused of a terrorist plot, though Iran says it will assist the UK in an investigation.
Iranian state media noted, “British police said on Sunday that they had arrested eight individuals, including seven Iranian nationals, in separate operations on suspicion of ‘terrorism offenses.’” Iran’s foreign minister said, “If credible allegations of misconduct are established, Iran stands ready to assist investigations…We call on the UK to ensure respect for our citizens’ rights and afford them due process.”
Tehran has also sought to distance itself from the Houthis and their attacks on Israel. Clearly, the Islamic Republic is worried about all these cases. In the old days, Iran would have been more aggressive in backing the Houthis and dealing with European accusations. Now, it seems to be on thinner ice.
Iran wants a deal with the US and amicable relations with Europe. Tehran is seeking to isolate Jerusalem by condemning Israel’s airstrikes on Syria and other actions. Most importantly, the Islamic Republic is closely watching the Trump administration’s next moves.