Iran Ready for Peace Talks if US Honours Commitments, Pezeshkian Claims 'We Can Move Forward' With Reciprocal Action

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Tehran is ready for peace talks if the US honours its commitments under the June memorandum of understanding, emphasising that Iran will reciprocate actions but won't be forced to surrender.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed Tehran's readiness for peace negotiations with the United States, stating that Iran will "move forward" with talks if Washington honours its commitments under the memorandum of understanding signed in June. Pezeshkian made the remarks during a televised interview on Friday, August 29, amid escalating tensions that have left the talks' fate uncertain.

"We can move forward if our actions are met with reciprocal and proportional actions from the other side," Pezeshkian said. "The main issue is that we must be committed to the MoU we have written. When we sit down at the negotiating table, we can talk to them."

The MoU Commitments

Under the June 18 MoU, the United States was expected to lift its naval blockade, end oil and petrochemical sanctions against Iran, and release Iranian frozen assets. Iran had exported nearly 90 million barrels of oil during the period when the agreement was being implemented.

"Iran remains committed to its obligations as long as the United States fulfills its commitments under the MoU. Wherever they fail to fulfill their commitment, we have no obligation to continue," Pezeshkian said at an earlier press conference.

The Current Context

The Iranian president's comments come amid a significant escalation between the two countries. On August 30, U.S. forces carried out strikes against two Iranian launchers on Larak Island after Iranian forces were seen preparing to launch rockets and deploy naval mines into the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian media reported subsequent attacks on U.S. facilities in Jordan.

Pezeshkian stressed that Iran will not be forced to surrender. "We are determined to use the MoU as the basis provided that the United States lets go of the atmosphere of distrust it has created, and an atmosphere of trust is formed," he said.

A Path Forward

Iran's deputy foreign minister earlier noted that the ball is in the U.S. court to choose between diplomacy and confrontation. Pezeshkian reaffirmed Iran's commitment to dialogue. "Nevertheless, we are still trying to achieve an agreement and understanding," he said during a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of a regional security gathering in Kyrgyzstan.

Here is the question this announcement raises. Iran's president has declared the country ready for peace talks, but only if the U.S. first honours its commitments under the June MoU. When the two sides have resumed military strikes and the U.S. is imposing an "economic D-Day," can any diplomatic opening survive the weight of mutual distrust?

FAQ:

Q: What did Iran's President say about peace talks with the US?
A: Pezeshkian said Iran is ready for peace talks if the US honours its commitments under the June MoU. He emphasised reciprocity, stating that Iran will match its actions to US compliance.

Q: What commitments did the US make under the June MoU?
A: Under the MoU, the United States was expected to lift its naval blockade, end oil and petrochemical sanctions against Iran, and release Iranian frozen assets.

Q: Has the US honoured its commitments under the MoU?
A: No. The US has continued military strikes and imposed an "Economic D-Day" campaign. Pezeshkian has stated that Iran has no obligation to continue if the US fails to fulfil its commitments.

Q: What is the current status of US-Iran talks?
A: The 60-day negotiation period under the MoU ended on August 17 without a final agreement. Military strikes have resumed, leaving the talks' fate uncertain.

Q: What is Iran's position on using force?
A: Pezeshkian has said that if the US resorts to force, Iran will not acquiesce. He has also stressed that Iran will not be forced to surrender.