Nournews: At the advent of the third round of indirect political negotiations between Iran and the U.S. in Muscat—held simultaneously with the first expert meeting between representatives of the two countries—the scene of regional and international diplomacy has entered a new phase. Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, has explicitly invited Europe to return to diplomacy. This invitation, while a sign of Tehran’s strategic wisdom, also poses a difficult test for the troika of European capitals.
This development comes at a time when relations between Iran and Europe have reached their lowest point in the past decade, and neither Tehran nor the European capitals have taken advantage of the situation. The simultaneity of this diplomatic shift with the indirect talks in Muscat raises serious questions about Europe’s position in the emerging regional and international arrangements.
Europe’s impasse: Choosing inaction instead of innovation
The approach of the three European countries has been a combination of inaction, psychological pressure, and an inability to make independent decisions. Araghchi rightly emphasizes that mutual relations are now in a “lose-lose” situation.
Europe, contrary to its diplomatic rhetoric, has neither managed to act as an influential mediator nor proposed any meaningful initiatives to reduce tensions. Even at times when Iran has announced its readiness to negotiate, the three European countries have either retreated under the pretext of human rights and security concerns or aligned their policies with the White House.
Europe’s inaction has now become a factor in its own isolation—especially at a time when Muscat has emerged as the gravity center of nuclear diplomacy, and China and Russia are expanding their roles as mediators and guarantors.
Muscat negotiations: An opportunity to redefine Europe’s role
Although the indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran have not reached a clear conclusion, they carry important messages—one of which is that Tehran no longer sees Europe as an effective intermediary. This change in Iran’s diplomatic tactics is a warning for France, Germany, and Britain.
If Europe cannot redefine its role within the new framework, it will inevitably be pushed to the sidelines.
Yesterday, the spokesperson for France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Paris is ready to hold talks with Iran. However, these repeated statements resemble media gestures without a real willingness to change course. Araghchi has clearly expressed his readiness to travel to Paris, Berlin, and London, but the other side has chosen a difficult and fruitless path.
The key question now is whether Europe is willing to accept Iran’s initiative and return to the negotiating table, or continue repeating past cycles?
Europe at a historic dilemma
Europe is at a critical juncture: on one side lies a return to responsible diplomacy, and on the other, continued marginalization in West Asia’s security developments. Araghchi’s invitation is more of a strategic warning than a mere diplomatic gesture: if Europe still wants to be a player, it must act instead of adopting symbolic positions.
Muscat may be the venue for talks with Washington, but Paris, Berlin, and London still have an opportunity to end their inaction and contribute to the future security of the region.
NOURNEWS