Putin has stepped in as a mediator in diplomatic efforts to end the dispute between the United States and Iran. These developments come at a time when Iran-U.S. relations face serious challenges, and it seems that Moscow is trying to act as a mediator.
Russia's Contacts with Iran
Recently, informed sources told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that Russia's recent contacts with the Iranian side followed a request from the United States to Moscow to play a mediating role and encourage Tehran to engage in direct negotiations with Washington. Moscow has continued its efforts through a series of trips to Iran, some of which were undisclosed and others public.
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Among these trips was last month's visit by Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, to Tehran, as well as a phone call between Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, and Mohsen Rezaei, the Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. These calls and visits indicate Moscow's serious efforts to facilitate negotiations.
Putin's Request to Mohsen Rezaei
In a meeting on Thursday between Putin and Mohsen Rezaei in Moscow, the Russian President asked this Iranian official to enter into direct negotiations with the Americans. Putin referenced the potential benefits of such an action during this meeting. However, Rezaei, citing past experiences and the "betrayal of the U.S.", explained why his country is currently refraining from negotiations.
The tensions and lack of trust between the two countries involve sensitive issues that must be examined carefully. Iran, as a country that has faced severe economic and political sanctions in recent years, is seeking guarantees that it can rely on in negotiations.
Qatar's Reaction to the Negotiations
Amid these developments, Qatar denied reports attributed to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the country, suggesting that the United States and Iran have not reached an agreement. Qatar emphasized that both sides are still striving to reach an agreement, and the mediation by this country is also in coordination with them, aimed at supporting the ongoing negotiations.
Overall, diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and establish constructive dialogues between the United States and Iran are taking shape. The future of these negotiations and their impact on relations between the two countries heavily depends on the actions of the parties and their ability to build trust.
