Iran: Success of nuclear talks depends on seriousness of all parties

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the success of the ongoing nuclear negotiations with US depends on the seriousness of all parties as the third round of indirect talks began on the evening of February 25 in Geneva.

Araghchi met with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi to outline Tehran’s positions on nuclear issues and the lifting of sanctions ahead of further discussions with Washington, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

During the meeting, he stressed that consistent engagement and the avoidance of contradictory statements or actions are essential for progress. Araghchi also expressed appreciation for Oman’s role in facilitating dialogue and supporting the negotiation process.

Albusaidi, in turn, praised Iran’s steady diplomatic approach and reaffirmed Oman’s readiness to continue acting as a mediator. He expressed hope that mutual seriousness from all sides would help produce results acceptable to both Tehran and Washington.

The indirect talks, mediated by Oman, take place amid ongoing international concern over Iran’s nuclear programme and the potential easing of sanctions.

US and Iranian officials are scheduled to meet in Geneva on February 26 for a third round of indirect talks, as President Donald Trump warns he may strike Iran if a nuclear deal is not secured.

The discussions come against the backdrop of the largest US military build-up in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq invasion, with Iran pledging to respond forcefully to any attack.

The talks are viewed as a last-ditch attempt to avert conflict, although the prospects of reaching an agreement remain uncertain.

While Trump has expressed a preference for resolving the crisis through diplomacy, he has also indicated that a limited strike on Iran is under consideration to pressure its leaders into accepting a deal.

The president has, however, provided little clarity on what exactly he is demanding in the negotiations or why military action might be necessary now, eight months after the US bombed Iranian nuclear facilities amid tensions between Israel and Iran.

Iran has rejected US demands to halt uranium enrichment on its soil, though there are signs it may be willing to offer certain concessions regarding its nuclear programme.

As with the previous two rounds of talks, mediated by Oman earlier this month, the Iranian delegation will be led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the US will be represented by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

By Aghakazim Guliyev