Geneva talks and the Iranian nuclear issue: Has the American position changed?
The Islamic Republic of Iran expressed cautious optimism ahead of a new round of diplomatic talks, indicating that the US position on the Iranian nuclear issue has become "more realistic." This statement, made by Iranian officials, comes on the eve of a second round of talks in Geneva, a continuation of discussions that began earlier this month, amidst heightened military and political tensions in the Middle East.
Historical context and escalating tensions
These talks are particularly important given the complexities that have plagued the nuclear agreement since the United States unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018, and Tehran's subsequent reduction of its nuclear commitments and increase in uranium enrichment levels. The international parties are currently seeking a compromise formula that guarantees the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting the crippling economic sanctions that have severely impacted the Iranian economy.
These diplomatic moves coincide with a show of force in strategic waterways, as Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz , a vital artery for global oil supplies. This comes as an implicit response to the US military buildup in the region, which included the deployment of aircraft carriers, placing negotiations under the pressure of mutual threats and the potential for military escalation.
Oman's role and the course of negotiations
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei confirmed that the talks held in Muscat in early February provided a basis for concluding that there was a shift in the American tone. The Sultanate of Oman is playing a pivotal role as a trusted mediator in conveying messages and bridging the gap between Tehran and Washington in these indirect talks—a role Muscat has historically played in the region's complex issues.
Technical meetings with the International Agency
In a related development, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Geneva, where he held an important meeting with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Discussions covered complex technical aspects, with Araqchi emphasizing his country's right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and denying any intention to develop nuclear weapons.
For his part, Grossi described the talks as "technical and in-depth," indicating that both sides were trying to resolve outstanding issues related to monitoring and inspection, which are the cornerstone of any future agreement that satisfies the international community and dispels concerns about nuclear proliferation.
Expected regional and international impacts
Observers believe that the success of these talks could reduce tensions in the Arabian Gulf region and avert a potential military conflict. However, a significant gap remains, as Western countries insist that any agreement must address other issues such as Iran's ballistic missile program and regional influence, a demand Tehran rejects as a red line, maintaining that negotiations should focus solely on the nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions.
