Iran’s foreign minister says he’s open to nuclear talks but prospect is dim

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday said Iran is ready for nuclear talks with the United States, but emphasized they must be “fair and equitable.”

“We are under no circumstances willing to accept dictation or imposition,” Araghchi said. “Nevertheless, Iran is ready to participate in any diplomatic process that is meaningful, logical and fair.”

Iran’s new statements come as the U.S. has sent naval warships from the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the Middle East, signaling a readiness to strike. But President Donald Trump has maintained that his administration hopes to take a diplomatic path forward, telling reporters on Thursday night, “It would be great if we didn’t have to use” any of the ships sent to the Middle East.

On Wednesday, Araghchi also