Iran has proposed a meeting with Britain, France, and Germany (E3) in Rome this Friday to advance discussions on the 2015 nuclear deal, diplomats said Monday. The proposal follows renewed nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington in Oman over the weekend, with another U.S.-Iran round tentatively set for May 3 in Europe.
Iran aims to gauge the European stance on the potential re-imposition of U.N. sanctions before a key resolution expires in October. Iranian officials also suggested an alternative meeting in Tehran if Rome is not feasible, though European diplomats have ruled out traveling to Iran.
The E3 is weighing whether to engage now or wait until U.S.-Iran talks progress further. An Iranian official emphasized the importance of maintaining unity among all parties to the 2015 accord and stressed Iran’s readiness for discussions.
Tensions remain high as the U.S., which withdrew from the nuclear agreement in 2018, cannot trigger U.N. sanctions snapback alone—leaving the E3 as critical players. Iran seeks European understanding as it resists an interim deal, citing distrust of Washington.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed willingness to visit Europe but pointed out that Europe must show its intent to restore trust. Since September, Tehran and the E3 have met multiple times to explore ways to revive the nuclear pact by rolling back Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for lifting sanctions.
Britain and Germany declined to confirm the proposed meeting, while France has yet to comment. Diplomats stress that close coordination between the U.S. and Europe remains vital as pressures mount for a new agreement.