Nuclear Deal Talks Show “Good Progress,” Iran and U.S. Report
Geneva, Switzerland – – The United States and Iran have reported making significant headway in negotiations aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, with both sides indicating an understanding has been reached on “guiding principles.” The second round of talks, mediated by Oman, concluded Tuesday in Geneva, signaling a potential shift in the strained relationship between the two nations.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the talks as “constructive,” stating that “the path toward an agreement has started,” though cautioned that substantial work remains. “I believe we made good progress,” Araghchi told state media. He added that both delegations would now focus on drafting detailed proposals before a potential third round of negotiations.
A U.S. Official echoed the sentiment, confirming that “progress was made, but there are still a lot of details to discuss.” The official indicated that the Iranian delegation signaled its willingness to return within the next two weeks with more comprehensive proposals to address remaining points of contention.
The positive developments come amidst escalating tensions, including a significant U.S. Military buildup in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has maintained a firm stance against Iran, even suggesting “regime change” as a potential outcome, a prospect dismissed by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who warned against any U.S. Attempts to destabilize his government.
The talks, facilitated by Oman, represent a renewed effort to de-escalate the situation and prevent further conflict. While no date has been set for a third round of negotiations, the current progress offers a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic resolution. According to Al Jazeera, Tehran views these talks as more “constructive” than previous rounds.
The negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of domestic unrest in Iran, with recent commemorations for those killed in protests serving as a focal point for dissent. Reports indicate that Iranians have chanted slogans against Ayatollah Khamenei during these memorials, highlighting internal pressures on the Iranian government.
The potential for a renewed nuclear deal has also had an impact on global markets, with gold prices falling in response to the positive signals from Geneva. This suggests that investors are viewing the progress in talks as a reduction in geopolitical risk.
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, are leading the U.S. Delegation. The focus now shifts to the detailed proposal stage, where the two sides will need to bridge remaining gaps and address complex issues related to nuclear restrictions, sanctions relief, and regional security concerns.
Oman’s foreign minister stated that the talks identified “common goals” and that “much work yet to be done” remains. The initial progress, however, is being viewed as a positive step towards a potential agreement, offering a potential pathway to de-escalation and a more stable regional landscape.
The situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remains a point of concern, with Iran recently conducting military drills that effectively closed the vital waterway. This action underscores the potential for escalation and the importance of finding a diplomatic solution to the ongoing tensions.
