GENEVA: Iran has voiced fresh optimism about reaching a nuclear agreement with the United States as senior officials from both sides prepare to meet in Geneva later this week.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a deal was “within reach,” describing the upcoming talks as a historic opportunity to resolve longstanding disputes and secure mutual interests. Writing on X, he emphasized that success would depend on prioritizing diplomacy.
1/4 Pillared on the understandings forged in the previous round, Iran will resume talks with the U.S. in Geneva with a determination to achieve a fair and equitable deal—in the shortest possible time.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) February 24, 2026
The negotiations, scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, will bring together US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner with an Iranian delegation, according to a senior US official.
Talks have resumed amid heightened regional tensions and an increased US military presence in the Middle East. Tehran has warned it would respond to any attack by targeting American bases in the region.
Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Iran is ready to take necessary steps to secure an agreement and would enter the discussions in good faith, according to AFP.
In Washington, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump remains committed to diplomacy but is prepared to consider military options if required.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran is evaluating a proposal to send half of its highly enriched uranium stockpile abroad, dilute the remainder, and participate in a regional enrichment consortium.
In return, Iran seeks recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment and the lifting of US economic sanctions.
Efforts to revive dialogue last year failed largely over Washington’s demand that Iran halt uranium enrichment on its soil — a condition Tehran rejects, insisting its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes.
Tensions escalated last June when the United States joined Israel in striking Iranian nuclear facilities, with President Trump claiming key sites were destroyed.
