Geopolitical Briefing: Iran
11 May 2025(Reuters)
- Iran and the U.S. resumed nuclear talks in Oman today, with Tehran reaffirming its right to uranium enrichment.
- Iran unveiled the “Qassem Basir,” a new solid-fueled ballistic missile, enhancing its strategic deterrence.
- Tehran condemned U.S. sanctions on Chinese refiners purchasing Iranian oil, labeling them as economic coercion.
- Iran criticized U.S. support for Israeli airstrikes in Yemen, accusing Washington of complicity in regional destabilization.(Reuters, AP News, Reuters)
Today, Iran and the United States resumed indirect nuclear negotiations in Muscat, Oman, after a postponement earlier this month. The talks, facilitated by Omani mediators, aim to address longstanding tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that uranium enrichment for civilian purposes remains non-negotiable, insisting on Iran’s sovereign right to develop its nuclear capabilities within the framework of international law . This stance underscores Tehran’s commitment to maintaining control over its nuclear program, resisting external pressures that could compromise its autonomy.(Reuters, Al Jazeera)
On May 4, Iran’s Defense Ministry unveiled the “Qassem Basir,” a new solid-fueled ballistic missile with a range of at least 1,200 kilometers. The missile boasts advanced guidance systems, allowing it to evade anti-ballistic defenses and strike targets with high precision without relying on GPS . This development enhances Iran’s strategic deterrence capabilities, signaling its intent to bolster national defense and assert its role as a regional power capable of countering external threats.(AP News)
Iran has strongly condemned recent U.S. sanctions targeting Chinese refiners for purchasing Iranian oil, describing them as a deliberate attempt to disrupt legitimate trade relations between developing nations . Tehran views these sanctions as part of a broader strategy of economic coercion aimed at undermining its economic sovereignty. By resisting such measures, Iran seeks to maintain its economic partnerships and assert its independence from Western economic pressures.(Reuters)
In response to U.S. support for Israeli airstrikes in Yemen, Iran has accused Washington of complicity in regional destabilization and war crimes. Iranian officials argue that these actions are intended to derail ongoing nuclear negotiations and exacerbate tensions in the region . Tehran’s condemnation reflects its broader strategy to challenge foreign military interventions and promote a regional order free from external interference, aligning with its goal of fostering solidarity among Muslim nations and reducing the influence of non-Muslim actors in the region.(The Guardian)
