Iran, U.S. Advance Nuclear Principles in Geneva Talks Amid Strait Tensions
Guiding Principles Shape Next Negotiation Phase
Security Drills and Oil Route Concerns Intensify
GENEVA, Feb. 17 — Iran and the United States reached an understanding on key principles during a second round of nuclear talks on Tuesday, officials said, signaling cautious progress while acknowledging significant work ahead. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Iranian media that negotiators agreed on guiding concepts, however he stressed that talks would continue before any final accord emerges. Meanwhile, Iranian state outlets reported temporary closures in parts of the Strait of Hormuz as Revolutionary Guards conducted security drills, therefore raising concerns across global energy markets. However, Tehran described the measures as precautionary during negotiations mediated by Oman, where U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner joined discussions with Araqchi, according to sources briefed on the meeting. U.S. President Donald Trump again suggested political change in Tehran could benefit stability, whereas Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected outside pressure and warned that intervention would fail, underscoring persistent mistrust. Additionally, analysts noted that any disruption in the strait could restrict roughly one-fifth of worldwide oil shipments, consequently increasing prices and complicating diplomacy. Nevertheless, negotiators signaled readiness for further sessions, and diplomats said both sides aimed to maintain momentum despite military posturing in the Gulf region. Consequently, mediators plan follow-up meetings soon, while officials urge restraint to protect shipping lanes and preserve fragile confidence as negotiations continue under intense international scrutiny, with markets watching developments closely through coming weeks, hoping dialogue prevents escalation and secures measurable nuclear limits benefiting regional security and global economic stability for consumers and producers alike worldwide as talks enter decisive diplomatic stages today.
