Open to discuss small changes to 2015 nuclear deal if sanctions lifted: Iran

German chancellor will also hold separate talks with US President Trump and his Iranian counterpart Rouhani

NEW YORK: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday he was open to discuss small changes, additions or amendments to a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six major powers if the United States lifted sanctions imposed on the Islamic republic.

The pragmatic president told media in New York that he will be open to discuss with major powers "small changes, additions or amendments" to nuclear deal if sanctions were taken away.

US President Donald Trump, who has adopted an "economic pressure" policy towards Iran to force its leadership to renegotiate the accord, said on Tuesday that he had no intention of lifting sanctions on Iran.

"All nations have a duty to act. No responsible government should subsidies Iran's blood lust," Trump said in a speech to the United Nations General Assembly annual gathering of world leaders. "As long as Iran's menacing behavior continues sanctions will not be lifted, they will be tightened."

Tensions have spiked between longtime foes, Tehran and Washington, since last year when Trump exited the nuclear pact and imposed sanctions on the Islamic republic that were lifted under the agreement.

In retaliation for the US "maximum pressure" policy, Iran has gradually reduced its commitments to the pact and plans to further breach it if the European parties fail to keep their promises to shield Iran's economy from US penalties.

UNGA: Trump says he is in 'very strong position' on Iran

Iran's top authority Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said last week that Iran could engage in multilateral discussions if the United States returned to the deal and lifted sanctions.

The confrontation has intensified between Tehran and Washington following an attack on major oil sites in Saudi Arabia on September 14 that sent oil prices soaring and raised fears of a new Middle East conflict.

The United States, European powers and Saudi Arabia have blamed Tehran for the attacks claimed by Iran-aligned Houthi group in Yemen. Iran has denied any involvement.

Rouhani said those who doubt Yemen has the military capability for such attack, “aren't saying who the culprit is”.

Merkel to meet Trump, Rouhani

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced that she will hold separate talks today with Trump and Rouhani on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Merkel "will today hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the General Assembly -- one with President Trump and the other with President Rouhani," a German spokesperson said.