GENEVA: Iran’s foreign minister arrived in Geneva on Monday for a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States, as Washington maintains military and diplomatic pressure on Tehran.
Tehran says the talks, mediated by Oman, will take place on Tuesday. However, US officials have previously signalled they want broader issues discussed, including Iran’s ballistic missile programme and regional activities.
Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB said Abbas Araghchi was leading a diplomatic and technical delegation. During his visit, Araghchi is expected to meet Swiss and Omani officials as well as International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi.
The White House confirmed that US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner have been dispatched for the discussions.
The negotiations resumed after previous efforts collapsed last year following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. Uncertainty also surrounds Iran’s stockpile of more than 400 kilogrammes of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity — a level far above civilian requirements but below weapons-grade.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if diplomacy fails, while calling for tougher measures over Iran’s nuclear programme. Western governments suspect Tehran aims to develop nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Tehran could consider compromises on its uranium stockpile if sanctions are lifted. “If we see sincerity on their part, I am sure we will be on a road to have an agreement,” he told the BBC.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted any deal must eliminate Iran’s enrichment capability, including dismantling the infrastructure that allows uranium enrichment.
Iranian officials have said they are seeking a “viable” agreement that would deliver economic benefits for both sides, particularly in sectors such as aviation, mining and energy.
