The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has indicated that a deal with the United States is achievable, contingent upon prioritizing diplomatic efforts. The third round of negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program is scheduled for February 26 in Geneva.
Araghchi emphasized the potential for a historic agreement that addresses mutual interests and concerns in a post on X. He stated that Iran is prepared to resume talks with a commitment to reach a fair agreement promptly.
Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, echoed this sentiment, asserting the country’s readiness to take necessary steps to finalize a deal. In comments to Iranian state media, he remarked, “We are prepared to reach an agreement as quickly as possible. We will do whatever it takes.” However, he also cautioned that Iran would respond according to its defense plans in the event of an attack, labeling any U.S. aggression as a serious misadventure.
On February 24, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt stated that President Donald Trump’s first option remains diplomacy, but he is prepared to use military force if necessary. The U.S. delegation in Geneva will include Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
A senior Iranian official, speaking to Reuters, noted that Tehran is seriously considering the option of sending half of its enriched uranium abroad, diluting the remainder, and participating in the establishment of a regional enrichment consortium. In return, Iran seeks recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment and the lifting of economic sanctions.
Previous indirect negotiations between the two nations last year yielded no results, primarily due to the U.S. demand for Iran to completely abandon uranium enrichment on its territory. Tehran has consistently denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons.
In June 2025, the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, with Trump claiming that key sites had been “destroyed.” Nevertheless, it is believed that Iran still possesses stocks of previously enriched uranium, which Washington insists must be relinquished.
Context of U.S.-Iran Tensions
Earlier reports from CBS News indicated that President Trump held a national security meeting regarding a potential military operation against Iran. Subsequently, he warned that “very bad things could happen” if Iran does not reach an agreement concerning its nuclear program and fully abandon uranium enrichment.
On February 3, U.S. military forces shot down an Iranian drone that allegedly approached the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln aggressively in the Arabian Sea. On the same day, vessels from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to seize an American tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.
On February 6, U.S. authorities urged American citizens to leave Iran immediately due to deteriorating security conditions in the country. Tehran has informed the United Nations that it will target U.S. bases if attacked.
Iran's leadership has expressed a commitment to diplomatic negotiations with the U.S. regarding its nuclear program, amid escalating tensions and military threats. The upcoming talks in Geneva are framed as a crucial opportunity for both nations to address longstanding concerns.
Source: Reuters