Ned Price stated that sanctions will only be lifted if Iran accepts the terms of the JCPOA.
Ned Price, the spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, resumed the department’s usual press briefing with journalists after a long holiday break.
The initial and important part of the discussions was dedicated to Afghanistan and the anniversary of the withdrawal of American forces from that country. However, it was natural for journalists to pressure him about the topic of Iran, the JCPOA, and Iran’s stance regarding the assassination attempt on Salman Rushdie.
His responses regarding the JCPOA reiterated the previous U.S. position, insisting on the full implementation of all JCPOA terms by Iran and the acceptance of the pre-agreed deal in Vienna.
Regarding Iran’s stance and its decision about the agreement, he clearly stated that journalists should refer to European officials. He officially announced that any serious lifting of sanctions on Iran is only possible if Iran accepts the terms of the JCPOA.
In response to Iran’s stance regarding the assassination attempt on Salman Rushdie, he initially declared the general and official position of supporting freedom of speech.
However, following another question on the matter, he strongly condemned the joy expressed by some Iranian officials over this event.