Geneva: The United States and Iran have resumed crucial negotiations in Geneva aimed at easing tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme, even as military threats and political pressure cast a shadow over the talks.
Diplomats from both sides returned to the negotiating table in an effort to reach a diplomatic solution that could prevent further escalation in the Middle East. The discussions follow earlier rounds that produced limited progress but failed to secure a final agreement.
The talks are taking place at a tense moment. The United States has increased its military presence in the region, signalling readiness if diplomacy fails. Iran has warned it would respond firmly to any attack, raising concerns about the risk of conflict if negotiations collapse.
At the centre of the discussions is Iran’s uranium enrichment programme. Washington insists Tehran must halt enrichment activities that could lead to nuclear weapons development. Iran maintains that its nuclear work is for peaceful purposes and says it has the right to enrich uranium under international law.
Another major issue is the duration of any future agreement. US officials are pushing for a long term arrangement that permanently prevents Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Tehran is seeking guarantees that sanctions will be lifted and its economy will benefit from any deal.
Iran is also pressing for access to frozen funds and relief from economic restrictions that have severely affected its economy. Iranian officials have suggested improved relations could open the door to economic cooperation.
Oman continues to play a mediating role between the two countries, helping bridge gaps as negotiators attempt to narrow differences.
Political pressure remains high. President Donald Trump has indicated that progress must be made quickly and has warned of consequences if diplomacy fails. US officials say preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains non negotiable, while Tehran insists its programme is peaceful.
Iranian leaders have expressed cautious optimism, saying an agreement is possible if diplomacy is given priority. However, major differences remain, and analysts warn that failure to reach a deal could increase the risk of military confrontation.
The Geneva talks are widely seen as a critical test for diplomacy. The outcome in the coming days could determine whether tensions ease through negotiation or move toward a more dangerous phase.