finance
Iran Rejects Linking Nuclear Program to War Negotiations
Iranian state media reported that Tehran will not negotiate its nuclear program as part of any agreement to end the current war. Oil prices rebounded after the denial of earlier reports suggesting a possible nuclear freeze.
May 18, 10:35 AM·1m read1 source
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Iranian state media reported Monday that Tehran will not negotiate its nuclear program as part of any agreement to end the current war. Tasnim News Agency cited Iranian government sources stating that fundamental differences remain between the Iranian and American texts. The agency quoted sources saying Iran will not agree to end the war in return for nuclear commitments.
Oil prices rebounded after the Iranian denial erased earlier weekend gains. The rebound followed reports from Al Arabiya and Reuters suggesting Iran might accept a long-term nuclear freeze. Iran has submitted a 14-point proposal through Pakistan. Reports indicate the United States has offered to lift sanctions on Iranian oil during any interim negotiating period.
Iranian sources listed several demands including the return of frozen assets and compensation for military actions. The sources stated that paper promises are of no use and that disagreements remain about the return of funds. Iranian sources also said Russia has offered to take and hold Iran's enriched uranium stockpile on its territory.
U.S. source told Al Jazeera that Iran has days, not weeks, to show progress.
