Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has arrived in Geneva for a crucial second round of nuclear talks with the United States, aimed at reducing tensions and preventing a new military confrontation.
Talks Aim to Achieve Fair and Equitable Deal
Araghchi emphasized that his county is committed to achieving a fair and equitable deal, but will not submit to threats. “I am in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal,” he wrote on X. “What is not on the table: submission before threats”.
The talks come as the US has deployed warships, including a second aircraft carrier, to the region, heightening concerns about possible new military action.
Key Issues on the Table
The main demand is the effective and verifiable lifting of economic sanctions, while the US is pushing for limits on Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. Iran has repeatedly emphasized that it will not agree to Washington’s demand for zero nuclear enrichment and considers its missile program a “red line” that cannot be negotiated.
Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on Monday, discussing the need for a “deep technical discussion”.
The IAEA has been calling for access to main nuclear facilities, which were bombed by the US and Israel during the 12-day war in June.
US Military Buildup Continues
Meanwhile, the US continues to build up its military presence in the region, with President Donald Trump saying a change of power “would be the best thing that could happen”.
The talks are expected to be mediated by Oman, with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner representing the White House.
Iran’s Stance
The foreign ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said the IAEA will play “an important role” in the talks, but also criticized Grossi for refusing to condemn military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Hardline lawmakers in Iran’s parliament are cautioning against giving inspection access to the IAEA, citing concerns about Iran’s territorial integrity and security.
The talks are taking place amidst rising tensions, with the US and Iran engaged in a decades-long dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program.
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