Iran and the United States are set to commence the fifth round of high-level nuclear discussions in Rome on Friday, amidst rising skepticism in Tehran regarding the likelihood of an agreement, as Washington adopts a more stringent approach.
Sources in Iran informed CNN that the chances of reaching a deal are low, with the U.S. demanding the dismantling of Tehran’s uranium enrichment program—a requirement that Iranian officials believe would derail the negotiations.
According to these sources, Iran’s engagement in the talks is primarily to gauge Washington’s latest position, rather than to seek a substantial breakthrough.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Tehran’s fundamental positions before his departure for Rome on Friday.
“Finding the path to a deal is not rocket science,” he stated on X before boarding.
“Zero nuclear weapons = we DO have a deal.
Zero enrichment = we do NOT have a deal.”
He is traveling to Rome for the fifth round of indirect negotiations with the U.S.
Trump Administration Maintains Stance on Enrichment Ban
The Trump administration has insisted that Iran cease all uranium enrichment activities, which U.S. negotiator Steve Witkoff stated “enable weapons development.” Uranium, a crucial nuclear fuel, can be transformed into a bomb if enriched to high levels. Iran argues its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and expresses willingness to commit to not enriching uranium for military use under a deal.
On Thursday, Araghchi mentioned that Iran is open to increased monitoring by international inspectors but will not relinquish its right to pursue nuclear energy, including enrichment. Washington, conversely, is offering sanctions relief in exchange for Iran’s denuclearization.
While the U.S. had previously sent mixed messages regarding whether Iran would be permitted to enrich uranium, it has recently adopted a stronger position, demanding zero enrichment.
This shift has led Iranian officials to question the U.S. commitment to achieving a deal, particularly since Iran has consistently stated that enrichment is a non-negotiable issue.
“U.S. media statements and actions during the talks have significantly disillusioned policy circles in Tehran,” the sources conveyed in a joint statement.
“From the perspective of Tehran’s decision-makers, the insistence on a total ban on uranium enrichment, despite knowing it is unacceptable for Iran, suggests that Washington is not genuinely interested in a deal but aims to escalate pressure.”
Initially, some Iranian officials thought that Washington would pursue a “win-win” compromise. However, the current consensus is that the Trump administration is driving the discussions toward a deadlock.
These sources noted that while both the U.S. and Iran are reluctant to leave the negotiating table, Washington’s stance could make the talks unproductive, raising doubts about the continuation of formal meetings.
The Iranian delegation in Rome plans to assess if the U.S. has reevaluated its approach. Reports suggest Tehran will likely take a firmer stance unless Washington offers substantial concessions beyond its current demands.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
