Indirect talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear program are taking place in Geneva. The American delegation is led by President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Trump himself said he would participate in the talks “indirectly.”
Iran is represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi is acting as the mediator. According to the Iranian news agency IRNA, “the exchange of messages through the Omani side has actually begun,” and the parties have already conveyed their positions.
Tehran insists on the “complete lifting” of sanctions and guarantees regarding its “peaceful nuclear program”. The negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of a deep economic crisis in Iran and mass protests. At the same time, the Iranian authorities are seeking to avoid a possible military escalation due to the increased American presence in the region.
The United States is demanding a rollback of its nuclear program, restrictions on ballistic missiles, and an end to support for regional allies. Iran has stated its willingness to discuss only nuclear restrictions, reserving the right to enrich uranium, and has rejected talks on missiles and alliances.
Trump stressed that the dialogue could concern exclusively the nuclear issue, while warning of possible military action. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Trump was “determined to use all means to reach a deal,” but added:
“I will not hide from you that I express my skepticism about any deal with Iran, because, frankly, Iran can only be trusted with one thing: they lie.”
Previously, the United States recommended that its citizens leave Iran due to the deteriorating security situation. American forces have also increased their military presence in the region. On February 3, the US military shot down an Iranian drone that “aggressively approached” the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, and in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian boats threatened an American tanker.
