Iran, US 'closer to agreement' after Geneva talks, technical talks set for Vienna

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared Thursday evening that Tehran and Washington have moved closer to agreement following the third and most intensive round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva, with "seriousness" between the two sides "more evident than before." Speaking to reporters after talks that spanned two sessions over nearly eight hours, Araghchi confirmed agreement that technical teams will begin discussions and reviews in Vienna starting Monday, with a new round of negotiations expected in less than a week.

Progress and Next Steps

Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, serving as mediator, reported "significant progress" and announced that discussions at a technical level will take place next week in Vienna. Araghchi noted that Thursday represented one of the "most serious and longest rounds" of negotiations, with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi's technical presence proving helpful. The top diplomat stated that there is agreement on "most of the elements" of a potential deal and how they would be addressed, though they require detailed technical discussions. Sanctions relief emerged as a central Iranian demand, with Araghchi indicating the issue will be addressed in greater detail next week after Tehran "clearly outlined" its specific requirements.

Red Lines and Context

Iranian government spokesman Elyas Hazrati rejected Western media reports on the talks as inaccurate, stressing Tehran's nuclear policy "remains unchanged" with enrichment continuing and "no transfer of nuclear material outside the country on the agenda." He emphasized that Tehran's primary focus remains sanctions removal. The negotiations occurred amid a massive US military buildup in the Persian Gulf and simultaneous IRGC drills, underscoring the high-stakes environment as both sides pursue diplomatic engagement.