Iran and US Resume Nuclear Negotiations
Iran and the United States have resumed talks aimed at resolving their decades-long dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program. The renewed discussions began earlier this month, following heightened tensions in the region.
The two countries are exploring a deal that could provide economic benefits to both sides. Iranian diplomat Hamid Ghanbari said on Sunday that potential areas include oil and gas fields, joint mining investments, and aircraft purchases. He emphasized that for any agreement to last, the US must also see “high and quick economic returns.”
The current round of negotiations is scheduled to continue in Geneva, Switzerland, with a US delegation including envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner expected to meet Iranian officials. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has left Tehran to participate in indirect nuclear talks and meet officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Unlike the 2015 nuclear deal, which involved multiple world powers, these talks are limited to Iran and the US, with Oman acting as a mediator.
Iran Shows Willingness to Compromise
Iran signaled flexibility in its nuclear stance ahead of the talks. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC that Tehran is willing to dilute its most highly enriched uranium in exchange for sanctions relief. However, Iran maintains it will not accept zero enrichment, a key concern for Washington.
Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful. Ghanbari also criticized the 2015 deal, saying it did not fully secure US economic interests. Tehran hopes that including mutually beneficial projects, such as mining and aircraft deals, will strengthen any potential agreement.
The backdrop of these negotiations is tense. The US has dispatched a second aircraft carrier to the region, preparing for possible military action if diplomacy fails. Iran has previously threatened to target US bases in the Middle East in response to attacks.
US Emphasizes Diplomacy, Economic Pressure Continues
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy but warned that a deal is not guaranteed. The US is simultaneously increasing economic pressure on Iran, including efforts to reduce its oil exports to China, a move coordinated with Israel.
Despite the tensions, both sides are signaling readiness to find a compromise. Tehran hopes that by offering potential economic incentives, negotiations can yield a durable nuclear agreement. Analysts say the coming talks in Geneva will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy can avert renewed confrontation in the region.
