Iran and the US have agreed on key “guiding principles” in their ongoing nuclear dispute discussions, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. However, Araghchi clarified that this does not indicate an imminent deal.
Following Araghchi’s remarks, oil futures saw a decline, with the Brent crude contract dropping over 1%. This development helped alleviate concerns of conflict in the region, where the US has deployed naval forces to pressure Iran for concessions.
After concluding talks in Geneva, Araghchi informed Iranian media that various ideas were thoroughly examined, leading to a general agreement on certain guiding principles. A US official mentioned that Iran is expected to present detailed proposals within the next two weeks to bridge gaps in the nuclear negotiations.
Although progress was noted, the official highlighted that there are still numerous details to be addressed. The discussions, facilitated by Oman and involving US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Araghchi, were described as indirect. Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr al-Busaidi, mentioned that while there is much work ahead, both Iran and the US have identified “clear next steps.”
As the talks commenced, Iranian state media reported a temporary closure of parts of the vital global oil supply route, the Strait of Hormuz, citing “security precautions” during military drills conducted by Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards. Tehran has previously threatened to block the strait to commercial shipping in case of an attack, potentially disrupting global oil flows.
In response to President Trump’s suggestion of “regime change” in Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei emphasized that any US attempts to overthrow the government would be unsuccessful. Araghchi, speaking at a disarmament conference in Geneva post-talks, expressed optimism about a “new window of opportunity” and hoped for discussions leading to a sustainable resolution that upholds Iran’s legitimate rights.
Trump indicated his indirect involvement in the Geneva talks and stated his belief that Iran is interested in reaching a deal. He underscored the importance of avoiding the consequences of failed negotiations, referencing previous military actions taken to address Iran’s nuclear potential.
The US and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last June, suspecting Iran’s nuclear ambitions posed a threat. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, despite enriching uranium beyond energy generation requirements, approaching weapons-grade levels.
Iran insists on discussing limitations to its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, emphasizing its refusal to completely halt uranium enrichment or address its missile activities. Khamenei reiterated the non-negotiable nature of Iran’s missile arsenal, asserting that missile specifications are unrelated to the US.
A senior Iranian official stressed the success of the Geneva talks hinged on realistic demands from the US and a genuine commitment to lift sanctions. The discussions were disrupted previously when Israel initiated airstrikes against Iran, leading to subsequent US B-2 bomber strikes on nuclear targets. Tehran later announced a halt to uranium enrichment activities.
Iran, as a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, asserts its right to civilian nuclear power while abiding by non-proliferation regulations. In contrast, Israel, which has neither confirmed nor denied possessing nuclear weapons, operates under a policy of ambiguity to deter potential adversaries.