Nuclear diplomacy between Iran and the United States appears to be finding its footing after a second round of indirect talks in Geneva ended on Tuesday with shared goals, agreed principles, and a commitment to continue the process. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi offered one of his most positive assessments of Iran-US nuclear talks in years, describing the session as constructive and progress as genuine.
The talks, held through Omani intermediaries and lasting about three and a half hours, covered the full range of issues that any nuclear agreement would need to address: enrichment levels, stockpile management, IAEA verification, and the timeline for any constraints Iran might accept. The two sides agreed on guiding principles and committed to exchanging draft texts before meeting again in approximately two weeks.
Iran’s principal offer — the dilution of its 60% enriched uranium stockpile and expanded IAEA cooperation — was presented as a serious and substantive package that reflected genuine willingness to find a negotiated solution. Iran also introduced broader diplomatic incentives, including a non-aggression pact and an economic cooperation framework designed to give the Trump administration additional reasons to reach a deal.
The central dispute over domestic enrichment rights remained unresolved. The US demanded a complete halt; Iran categorically refused. On the duration of any temporary suspension, the two sides also differed, with the physical damage to Iranian nuclear infrastructure adding practical uncertainty to an already politically complex question.
The diplomatic backdrop remained charged. Khamenei warned US warships in Gulf waters, Iran conducted live-fire exercises near the Strait of Hormuz, and at home the government faced intense domestic pressure over the violent suppression of protests. Over 10,000 demonstrators had been summoned for trial, reformist politicians were being arrested, and the country was in the midst of a nationwide day of mourning — yet the talks in Geneva continued, carefully and with measured purpose.