Iran Pursuing Removal and Nullification of Sanctions, Says Parliament Speaker

Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf announced that the Islamic Republic is actively working towards both the removal and nullification of anti-Iran sanctions.

The speaker said that Iran is engaged in discussions with five signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), aiming to reach a consensus that would facilitate the lifting of economic and diplomatic sanctions against the Islamic Republic while also circumnavigating existing embargoes, The Caspian Post reports, citing IRNA.

Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent letter and Iran’s response, Qalibaf said that the Iranian Foreign Ministry is addressing this matter and will prepare an official reply. He also said that Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in his first term, despite the United States having signed the agreement.

Approximately 20 days ago, Trump issued an executive order outlining his administration's policy toward Iran, which called for the control of Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, as well as unconventional weapons like drones, the speaker said. However, Qalibaf criticized the U.S. president for failing to address the benefits Iran would gain from accepting these demands.

Trump issues order and urges Iran to do it under pressure, and after that, let’s see what will happen, Qalibaf said, questioning the nature of such a negotiation.

Iran remains committed to its obligations under the JCPOA, with the three European signatories, along with China and Russia, still involved in the agreement, he said, emphasizing that Iran is open to negotiations provided there are tangible economic benefits.

According to the speaker, economic benefits mean that the Central Bank of Iran should be able to engage in commercial and monetary exchanges, allowing the country to export oil, secure international shipping insurance, and attract foreign investment. In conclusion, he said that Trump’s statements contradict these essential requirements for any potential negotiation.