On November 11, 2025, at the 12th Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh outlined Tehran’s goal: a “peaceful” nuclear agreement with the United States to resolve a decades-long impasse without compromising national security.
Decades of Dispute
For over 30 years, tensions have flared between Iran and the United States. Washington, its European allies, and Israel accuse Tehran of seeking weaponization under the guise of a civilian nuclear program. Iran maintains its activities are solely peaceful, aimed at power generation and medical research.
The Road to Talks
- Five rounds of nuclear negotiations concluded before June’s 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, during which the United States struck key Iranian sites.
- In October 2025, President Donald Trump signaled willingness to negotiate when Tehran was prepared, stating, “The hand of friendship and cooperation (with Iran) is open.”
- Since the June war, diplomatic channels have stalled amid mutual accusations of broken commitments.
Key Obstacles Ahead
Khatibzadeh highlighted the main sticking point: uranium enrichment. The United States demands a reduction to zero to eliminate weaponization risks; Iran rejects any blanket cessation, citing its right to peaceful research.
Last week, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ruled out talks under duress, reinforcing Tehran’s stance that security concerns must guide any future deal.
“Tehran is not seeking nuclear bombs and … is prepared to assure the world about it. We are very proud of our home-grown nuclear program,” Khatibzadeh said, emphasizing both transparency and sovereignty.
Global Stakes
A new agreement could thaw relations, lift sanctions, and reshape energy markets across Asia and Europe. For digital nomads, stability in the Middle East opens doors to renewed travel opportunities. Entrepreneurs eye potential in Iran’s energy sector, while thought leaders debate the balance between security and cooperation.
As the world watches, the path to a peaceful nuclear deal remains fraught but essential for regional and global security.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
