US-Iran nuclear talks to resume in Geneva against backdrop of military threat
The United States and Iran are set to resume nuclear negotiations in Geneva on Thursday, seeking to resolve their long-running dispute over Tehran’s nuclear programme and reduce the risk of renewed military confrontation in the Middle East.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will take part in the indirect discussions with US representatives, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. The negotiations will be facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, continuing mediation efforts that began earlier this month.
The talks come amid heightened tensions following a significant US military buildup in the region and warnings from Donald Trump that Washington could resort to force if diplomacy fails. Trump recently told Congress he preferred a negotiated solution but insisted the United States would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons.
US Vice President JD Vance reinforced that position, stating that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear arms remains a core strategic objective. Washington and its allies suspect Tehran is pursuing nuclear weapons capability, an allegation Iran continues to reject.
Iran has warned that any military strike would trigger a strong response. Tensions escalated further after US and Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities last year and Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone strikes.
Tehran says it is prepared to reach a “fair and rapid” agreement but insists on maintaining its right to peaceful nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment. Negotiators remain divided over key issues such as sanctions relief and verification measures.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei faces growing domestic pressure as sanctions continue to strain the economy and fuel public discontent.
Rafael Grossi, head of the UN nuclear watchdog, is also expected in Geneva to consult with both sides, reflecting the agency’s central role in monitoring any future agreement.
Diplomats say the Geneva meetings could determine whether negotiations move toward a comprehensive deal or slide into renewed confrontation.
.png "Advertisement")
