U.S. and Iran edge toward compromise on nuclear program
World
The United States and Iran held a second round of indirect talks in Geneva on Tehran’s nuclear program, reporting “progress” and agreement on basic principles for a future deal, even as both sides signaled military pressure.
The February 17 talks took place in Geneva with Oman acting as mediator. The negotiations were indirect, with delegations communicating through intermediaries.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the sides had reached an understanding on key guiding principles of a future agreement. He noted that a clear roadmap now exists, though details still need to be finalized.
The U.S. side also confirmed that the talks produced progress.
According to sources, Iran is prepared to suspend uranium enrichment for three to five years. After that, Tehran could join a regional consortium for civilian uranium enrichment. Iran is also ready to dilute its existing uranium stockpiles under the supervision of international inspectors.
In return, Tehran is demanding the lifting of financial and banking sanctions, as well as the end of the oil embargo. Iran has also offered investment opportunities in its energy sector.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran appears interested in a deal but warned of potential strikes if negotiations fail.
Amid the talks, Washington increased its military presence in the region, deploying two aircraft carriers to the Persian Gulf.
In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil shipments.
The first round of indirect talks between the sides took place on February 6 in Muscat. The date of the next meeting has not yet been announced.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the sides had reached an understanding on key guiding principles of a future agreement. He noted that a clear roadmap now exists, though details still need to be finalized.
The U.S. side also confirmed that the talks produced progress.
According to sources, Iran is prepared to suspend uranium enrichment for three to five years. After that, Tehran could join a regional consortium for civilian uranium enrichment. Iran is also ready to dilute its existing uranium stockpiles under the supervision of international inspectors.
In return, Tehran is demanding the lifting of financial and banking sanctions, as well as the end of the oil embargo. Iran has also offered investment opportunities in its energy sector.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran appears interested in a deal but warned of potential strikes if negotiations fail.
Amid the talks, Washington increased its military presence in the region, deploying two aircraft carriers to the Persian Gulf.
In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil shipments.
The first round of indirect talks between the sides took place on February 6 in Muscat. The date of the next meeting has not yet been announced.
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