Geneva, Switzerland – The second round of indirect nuclear talks between the United States and Iran concluded Tuesday in Geneva, Switzerland, amid indications of initial progress on some issues, according to a Sky News Arabia correspondent and Iranian state media.
Participation of high-level envoys
The US delegation to the talks included Steve Wittkopf and Jared Kushner, while the Iranian side was represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The ISNA news agency reported that the talks lasted approximately three hours and described them as taking place in an atmosphere of intense negotiation.
Understanding of key principles
In his first comments following the conclusion of the round, Araqchi stated that the two sides had reached an “understanding on the main principles.” He also noted “positive developments compared to the previous round.” He added that the two sides would work on preparing two drafts of a potential agreement document, paving the way for the exchange and discussion of proposals, while acknowledging that some outstanding issues still required further in-depth discussion.
Iranian demands to lift sanctions
The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Tehran is demanding a complete lifting of sanctions. In addition, it seeks confidence-building talks regarding its nuclear program, which it insists is peaceful. Washington and its ally Israel, however, believe that Iran is seeking to acquire nuclear weapons, an accusation Tehran consistently denies.
American statements and field movements
For his part, US President Donald Trump said he was participating “indirectly” in the Geneva talks. He asserted that Tehran did not want to bear the consequences of the agreement’s failure. The negotiations coincided with Iran’s announcement of the closure of parts of the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire military exercises. This move drew widespread regional and international attention.
