Tensions between Tehran and Washington are once again under the spotlight as the possibility of renewed nuclear negotiations looms, this time with a twist: Iran is demanding a concrete act of goodwill-namely, the lifting of some sanctions or unfreezing of financial assets-before it agrees to any direct talks with the United States. The development, reported by Reuters on April 8, underscores the deep mistrust that continues to define the US-Iran relationship, even as diplomatic windows seem to reopen.

Sources cited by Reuters revealed that Iran remains hesitant about face-to-face negotiations without a gesture from Washington that signals seriousness and respect. This could take the form of relaxing some of the extensive sanctions the United States has imposed on the Islamic Republic over the years, particularly those targeting its energy sector and financial system.

The diplomatic overture comes ahead of talks set to take place this week in Oman, a nation that has long served as a backchannel for sensitive regional negotiations. These talks, according to US President Donald Trump, would ideally be “very high-level” and direct in nature. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi poured cold water on that idea, insisting that any dialogue for now would remain indirect.

Araqchi explained in an opinion piece published by The Washington Post on April 8 that indirect negotiations are not a sign of reluctance but rather a “strategic choice.” He cited what he described as “serious doubts” about Washington’s intentions, especially in light of........

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