Iran Declares Military 'Red Lines' in U.S. Nuclear Talks, Tensions Escalate
April 15, 2025
Ahead of upcoming nuclear talks with the U.S., Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared that the country's military capabilities are non-negotiable.
The U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018 by then-President Donald Trump reinstated sanctions against Iran, prompting the country to gradually move away from the agreement.
Upon returning to office in January 2025, Trump reinstated a 'maximum pressure' campaign against Iran and has warned of possible military action if Iran does not comply with nuclear talks.
Iranian state media reported that discussions of regional influence and missile capabilities are also considered red lines, indicating a firm stance in negotiations.
Spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini emphasized that national security and military power are red lines for Iran and cannot be discussed under any circumstances.
In March 2025, Trump sent a letter to Iran's supreme leader proposing nuclear talks while warning of potential military action if Iran does not comply.
Recent indirect talks involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff were described as constructive, with plans for further discussions.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has stated that the upcoming discussions will focus solely on nuclear issues and sanctions, without addressing military capabilities.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations but warned that both parties have clear red lines that may complicate discussions.
Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, asserting its right to pursue nuclear energy while consistently denying any intentions to develop nuclear weapons.
The second round of talks between Iran and the U.S. is scheduled for April 19, 2025, in Muscat, Oman, following high-level discussions the previous week.
The U.S. has previously demanded that Iran curb its missile program and regional influence, which Iran categorically rejects.
Summary based on 4 sources
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idfwo logo • Apr 15, 2025
Iran insists military capabilities and proxy groups are ‘red lines’ in talks with US