Tehran Links Progress to Trust and Economic Relief
A senior Iranian lawmaker has said Tehran remains open to reaching an agreement with the United States, provided Washington demonstrates sincerity and respects the terms of negotiations.
Speaking to CNN on Monday, Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s parliamentary National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, questioned the credibility of US President Donald Trump despite reports suggesting that negotiations between the two countries are approaching a breakthrough.
Azizi said Iran does not oppose talks in principle but views negotiations as an extension of broader strategic competition. He argued that trust remains the central obstacle and insisted that Washington must prove its commitment through actions rather than statements.
According to the Iranian official, Tehran would have “no problem” pursuing negotiations if American officials adhere to agreed rules and show genuine intent to resolve disputes. However, he maintained that Iran remains unconvinced by current US assurances.
Assets Freeze and Regional Issues Remain Key Obstacles
Meanwhile, Azizi identified the release of frozen Iranian assets as one of the most significant sticking points in ongoing discussions. He claimed that American negotiators had previously agreed to unblock Iranian funds but that progress has since stalled.
Furthermore, he argued that a realistic framework for implementing any future agreement cannot succeed while financial restrictions remain in place. Economic concerns, including sanctions, banking access, and broader financial cooperation, continue to feature prominently in Tehran’s demands.
Azizi also reiterated Iran’s firm stance on issues related to uranium enrichment and its nuclear programme, signaling that Tehran is not prepared to alter its position without corresponding concessions.
In addition, he emphasized the importance of regional developments, particularly Lebanon, describing the issue as vital to Iran’s national interests. He stressed that Tehran would continue supporting what it calls the “resistance front” and would not retreat from its commitments in the region.
Consequently, Azizi said the future of negotiations depends largely on Washington’s next steps. While he left the door open to an agreement, he warned that continued distrust could prevent talks from moving forward.
