Strikes and Suspensions Pave Way for Third Round (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Geneva – U.S. and Iranian envoys clashed in indirect negotiations Thursday over Tehran's nuclear ambitions, as President Donald Trump amplified pressure with unprecedented forces in the Middle East.[1][2]
Strikes and Suspensions Pave Way for Third Round
Negotiators returned to the table after a turbulent history marked by violence and stalled diplomacy. Israeli and U.S. strikes battered Iran's nuclear facilities in June 2025, prompting Tehran to suspend talks indefinitely.[3] The assaults targeted sites like Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, setting back the program significantly, though U.S. officials later detected rebuilding efforts.[1]
Efforts resumed earlier this year in Oman, described as a "good start" by Iranian officials. Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi mediated the indirect exchanges, which evolved into limited direct discussions during this third session.[4] The Geneva venue hosted over three hours of deliberations before a pause for capital consultations, with plans to reconvene later Thursday.[2]
Power Players Drive High-Stakes Exchanges
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff led the American delegation alongside Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and advisor. Iran fielded Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, backed by President Masoud Pezeshkian's assurances of peaceful intent.[1][4] IAEA Director General Raphael Grossi observed, underscoring international stakes.
Al-Busaidi reported "creative and positive ideas" flowing between sides, fueling cautious optimism. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei noted "very important and practical proposals" on nuclear limits and sanctions relief.[2] A senior Khamenei adviser even hinted an "immediate agreement is within reach."[4]
Divergent Demands Define the Impasse
Washington demanded curbs on uranium enrichment, currently paused but previously nearing weapons-grade at 60 percent, alongside indefinite verification and missile restraints. Tehran stockpiled over 10,000 kilograms of enriched material, far beyond civilian needs.[4][3]
| US Position | Iran Position |
|---|---|
| Zero enrichment, dismantle facilities, export stockpiles | Retain limited enrichment for civilian use, keep stockpiles domestic |
| End missile program, halt proxy support | Full sanctions relief, no interference in defense capabilities |
| Strict IAEA inspections | Guarantees against future U.S. withdrawal or strikes |
Vice President JD Vance encapsulated the U.S. stance: "The principle is very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon."[1] Iran countered with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's fatwa banning weapons, as reiterated by Pezeshkian.
Armada Deployment Adds Urgency
Trump's strategy blended carrot and stick, deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group alongside troops and aircraft – the largest Mideast buildup in decades. He issued a 10-to-15-day ultimatum, warning of "really bad things" absent a deal.[1]
Fresh sanctions hit Iran's oil and missiles just before talks, amid domestic protests weakening Tehran's hand. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Iran's current enrichment halt but stressed rebuilding attempts.[1] Tehran vowed a fierce response to any attack, heightening global anxiety.
These talks represent a fragile pivot from confrontation. Success could avert war and unlock sanctions relief; failure risks escalation. What do you think – will diplomacy prevail? Tell us in the comments.
Key Takeaways
- Third round yielded proposals amid mediator optimism, but gaps persist on enrichment and verification.
- Trump's forces signal no tolerance for delays, echoing 2025 maximum pressure.
- Iran eyes economic lifelines, denying weapon pursuits under religious decree.
