Under opposing demands, it is hard to imagine quick agreement – Iranologist

February 16 2026, 20:00

Politics

It is still too early to give definitive assessments regarding the ongoing Iran–US negotiations, since only one meeting has taken place so far and the next is scheduled in the near future, Iranologist Zhanna Vardanyan said in an interview with Alpha News.

“Up to now, the public has not had access to sufficient information about the substantive part of the negotiations, and almost nothing is known about behind-the-scenes discussions. For this reason, it is difficult to understand exactly what issues are on the negotiating table and what concessions each side is prepared to make,” Vardanyan said.

She emphasized that, at the level of public rhetoric, positions remain unchanged: Iran continues to insist that it is ready to discuss only the nuclear issue, while preserving certain rights, including the right to enrich uranium. According to her, the Iranian side shows willingness to make concessions only within this framework.

“Meanwhile, the American demands remain broader, encompassing Iran’s missile program and regional activities. Under these opposing approaches, it is hard to imagine how the parties could reach an agreement in a short period of time,” the expert noted.