Fact Check: Tehran had been engaged in talks with the Trump administration on a deal to curb its nuclear programme to replace one that Mr Trump abandoned in 2018.

Fact Check: "Tehran had been engaged in talks with the Trump administration on a deal to curb its nuclear programme to replace one that Mr Trump abandoned in 2018."

What We Know

The claim suggests that Tehran was in discussions with the Trump administration to establish a new nuclear deal following the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. On May 8, 2018, President Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA, which had been a significant diplomatic achievement aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief (source). Following this withdrawal, Iran expressed its intention to continue adhering to the terms of the agreement, despite the U.S. exit (source).

In the years following the withdrawal, there were various diplomatic efforts and statements from both sides, but concrete negotiations for a new deal were complicated by escalating tensions and differing objectives. Reports indicate that while there were attempts to engage in dialogue, the environment was fraught with mistrust and geopolitical maneuvering (source).

Analysis

The assertion that Tehran was engaged in talks with the Trump administration is partially supported by the context of ongoing diplomatic efforts. After the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA, both sides expressed a desire for negotiations at different points, but the specifics of these discussions remain unclear. The Trump administration's approach was characterized by a "maximum pressure" campaign, which aimed to compel Iran to negotiate a new deal that would address not only nuclear issues but also Iran's regional activities (source).

However, the reliability of sources discussing these negotiations varies. The New York Times article provides a detailed account of the events surrounding the U.S. withdrawal and the subsequent diplomatic landscape, making it a credible source for understanding the context (source). In contrast, other sources may present biased perspectives based on their political affiliations or agendas, which could influence their portrayal of the negotiations.

Furthermore, the complexity of international relations, particularly regarding Iran, means that many claims can be interpreted in multiple ways. For instance, while there may have been informal discussions or overtures, the lack of a formal agreement or structured negotiations suggests that the claim lacks definitive evidence.

Conclusion

Needs Research: The claim that Tehran was engaged in talks with the Trump administration to establish a new nuclear deal is not fully substantiated by available evidence. While there were indications of a willingness to negotiate from both sides, the specifics of these discussions and their outcomes remain ambiguous. The geopolitical context, characterized by mistrust and conflicting objectives, complicates the narrative. Further research is needed to clarify the nature and extent of any talks that may have occurred.

Sources

1. Teheran – Wikipedia
2. Trump Abandons Iran Nuclear Deal He Long Scorned
3. Tehran - Wikipedia
4. Trump urges diplomatic solution with Iran but says Israeli ...
5. Israel attacks Iran’s capital with explosions booming across Tehran
6. Israel Launches Attack on Iran as Tehran Scrambles Jets
7. United States withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive ...
8. Trump says Iran has 'second chance' to come to nuclear ...