UN Calls for Renewed Talks Between Iran and the US

New Delhi, August 18: The United Nations has urged for renewed negotiations between Iran and the United States. According to a spokesperson, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on both nations to resume talks to find a permanent resolution to their ongoing disputes.

As reported by Xinhua News Agency, the call comes after the 60-day deadline set for finalizing an agreement under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established on June 17 between Iran and the US. When asked about Guterres’ message, spokesperson Stephen Dujarric stated that the Secretary-General wishes for talks to recommence.

Dujarric emphasized, “His message remains consistent: there is no military solution to this dispute. He urges Iran and the US to restart negotiations as soon as possible for a peaceful and lasting resolution, aiming to avoid military action and reduce the recent sharp rhetoric.”

The agreement stipulated that the US and Iran would reach a final deal through negotiations within a maximum of 60 days, which could be extended by mutual consent. However, as the negotiation period expired, US President Donald Trump remarked that Tehran desires an agreement but is unwilling to accept the terms he deems necessary.

On Monday, Trump told reporters at the White House, “They want to make a deal, but they won’t make the kind of deal that I consider essential.” He did not provide further details on the negotiation status but reiterated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains Washington’s goal.

Trump stated, “You understand that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons, and they will not have nuclear weapons. It’s very simple. They cannot wage nuclear war.” He also claimed that the US has “full control” over the Strait of Hormuz through a naval blockade against all Iranian ports, repeatedly suggesting it as an area of US jurisdiction.

He added, “We control it through the blockade. And I like the idea of declaring it our territory. Now we have complete control over the Strait.” Regarding previous warnings about Oman, which is reportedly working with Iran to open the strait and maintain control over the waterway, Trump remarked, “I don’t think their behavior has been very good, but we will handle them easily, just as we do with others.”