Iran has conveyed a readiness to accept a long-term halt to its nuclear activities if international sanctions are lifted, while making clear it will not compromise on its ballistic missile program, according to a report published Friday by The New York Times.

Tehran maintains that its missile capabilities are essential for what it describes as defensive purposes, particularly in light of threats it associates with Israel.

In diplomatic contacts, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told his Omani counterpart that the Islamic Republic’s immediate objective is “to manage the current situation between Iran and the US and to advance negotiations,” according to Iran’s state-run IRNA.

Iranian outlet Nournews offered a more critical assessment of the talks, stating, “The negotiations between Iran and the US in Muscat, with the presence of the commander of CENTCOM, alongside the transfer of equipment and naval movements, is a combination of negotiations and a show of force to increase pressure. Iran will not retreat under threat. The inclusion of the military component raises the risk and cost of negotiations, and the responsibility for this lies with the US.”

Separately, Al-Mayadeen reported that current discussions are focused on procedural matters rather than substantive terms. “What is happening now is negotiations about the negotiation process itself, not about the details of the agreement. We are waiting for the opening of the third phase of the first round of indirect talks. The Iranian side emphasizes the need for seriousness in negotiations. It is claimed that Iran has set a defined ceiling – limiting the talks to the issue of the nuclear program only.”

{Matzav.com}