By Staff Reporter
Indirect talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva ended with both sides reporting progress, but with few concrete details and no clear indication that a breakthrough is imminent.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the discussions were the “most serious and longest talks” so far and confirmed that technical negotiations would continue next week in Vienna. The talks were mediated by Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, whose country has been acting as an intermediary between the two sides.
Mediation and participation
The Iranian delegation, led by Araghchi, submitted written proposals to the Omani mediator, who then conveyed them to the US team. The American delegation was led by envoy Steve Witkoff and included Jared Kushner.
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, also participated. The agency would be responsible for monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities if a deal is reached.
Core disputes remain unresolved
Major disagreements persist, particularly over Iran’s uranium enrichment programme and ballistic missile capabilities. Washington has stated it will not accept uranium enrichment on Iranian soil, even for civilian purposes, while Tehran insists enrichment is its sovereign right and has refused to discuss its missile programme.
Iran’s proposal reportedly includes diluting some of its highly enriched uranium while keeping it inside the country, alongside potential economic cooperation involving oil, gas, and aircraft purchases.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected US accusations that Iran supports terrorism, arguing that Iran itself has been a victim of violence and assassinations.
Military tensions and war fears
The negotiations come amid rising military tensions, with the US deploying additional naval forces to the region, including the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has maintained a hardline stance, expressing skepticism about the chances of reaching an agreement and warning that Iran’s political system would endure regardless of external threats.
Economic pressure inside Iran
Economic hardship continues to mount in Iran, with inflation exceeding 60 percent. Food prices have surged sharply, with cooking oil, bread, meat, and dairy seeing some of the steepest increases. The Iranian rial has also fallen to near-record lows against the US dollar.
Many Iranians are reportedly stocking up on essential goods such as food, water, and batteries amid fears of potential conflict.
Next phase
Technical discussions scheduled in Vienna are expected to clarify whether the current diplomatic momentum can translate into a formal agreement. However, deep differences on nuclear and security issues remain, leaving uncertainty over whether diplomacy can prevent further escalation or possible military confrontation.
