Iran Says 60-Day Window for US Talks Is Void After MOU Breach

Iran said the 60-day period set for nuclear and sanctions talks with the US has lost all meaning after Washington violated a memorandum of understanding. Tehran also said direct negotiations with the US have yet to begin.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the so-called 60-day window became meaningless after the US breached the MOU signed on June 18, according to cryptocurrency-focused media outlets Odaily and BlockBeats on August 17.

Baghaei said the MOU was meant to provide 60 days for talks on sanctions relief and nuclear issues. The period could have been extended if no agreement was reached, but negotiations never began because the US committed what he described as a serious and wide-ranging violation of the agreement just weeks after it was signed.

He added that the MOU contains no clause referring to a "60-day deadline." Iran does not make policy based on pressure, ultimatums or time limits, he said. The 60 days were a period for negotiations, not a final deadline meant to force a deal.

Direct talks between the US and Iran have not started. Pakistan and Qatar are instead mediating to ease tensions, and Iran said no other countries are currently serving in that role.

Talks with Oman are continuing separately. The two sides are drawing up a roadmap for maritime passage, while Iran said the discussions are taking longer because the agenda is complex, multiple parties are involved and some countries are trying to disrupt the process.

Baghaei reiterated that Iran will not make decisions under time pressure or ultimatums.