Top Iranian diplomat: Tehran willing to discuss nuclear program if Trump lifts crippling sanctions

A top Iranian diplomat recently stated in Tehran that Iran is willing to engage in discussions about its nuclear program, but only if the United States agrees to lift some of the crippling sanctions that have severely damaged the country's economy. This conditional offer comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations following the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 under the Trump administration. The diplomat emphasized that Tehran's willingness to negotiate is directly linked to economic relief, as the sanctions have not only hampered Iran's economy but also affected ordinary citizens' access to essential medicines and other vital resources. The statement represents a cautious diplomatic opening by Iran, which has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes despite international concerns about potential military applications. The development comes as the Biden administration has signaled interest in returning to nuclear negotiations, though significant differences remain between the two countries regarding the scope of sanctions relief and verification mechanisms.