• Iran is still considering its formal reply to U.S. proposals on nuclear talks, according to a foreign ministry spokesperson.
  • Tehran plans to submit a calculated response based on national interests, with no final agreement reached yet.
  • The cautious approach reflects Iran's insistence on negotiating from a position of principle and its red lines on enrichment and sanctions relief.

Diplomatic Signals Amid Nuclear Talks

Iran is carefully evaluating its next steps in nuclear negotiations, with a foreign ministry spokesperson stating on Tuesday that Tehran has not yet delivered a final answer to U.S. proposals, according to Tasnim News Agency. The official emphasized that the Islamic Republic will respond “at the appropriate time” and in line with its national interests, signaling a deliberate approach to the diplomatic process.

The comments come as Iran and the United States continue indirect exchanges through Omani intermediaries, with Tehran describing the process as “message exchanges” rather than formal negotiations. The U.S. has publicly pushed for a framework to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, while Iran demands guarantees on sanctions removal and recognition of its enrichment rights. “Receiving a document does not mean accepting its terms,” a senior Iranian official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Background and Context

The stalemate has persisted since the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, with Iran gradually exceeding enrichment limits. The latest round of talks has been complicated by regional tensions and domestic politics in both countries. Iran has prepared a counter-proposal to Washington’s 15-point plan, which was submitted via Oman earlier this month, according to Tasnim. However, the foreign ministry on Tuesday declined to confirm whether the counter-proposal had been formally delivered, stating only that Tehran is “still weighing its response.”

Economic and Regional Implications

Investors are closely watching the talks for signs of an agreement that could unlock sanctions relief and boost Iran’s oil exports, potentially affecting global crude prices. A breakthrough could ease inflation pressures in Iran and attract foreign investment, but further delays risk extending economic uncertainty. Gulf Arab states are also monitoring the dynamics, as a deal could reshape regional security. “The market is pricing in a low probability of a near-term deal, given Iran’s red lines,” said an analyst at a Middle East-focused advisory firm.

Looking Ahead

Iran has signaled openness to continued dialogue but insists on negotiating from a position of strength. The spokesperson said that any response will be “proportionate and in line with the interests of the Iranian people.” Without a formal reply, expectations for a sixth round of indirect talks remain uncertain. The U.S. has not publicly commented on the latest Iranian statements, though an American official said earlier that “diplomacy remains the preferred path.”

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of Iran's counter-proposal submission. It was delivered earlier this month, not last week.