A second round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States wrapped up in Geneva on Tuesday, with Iranian officials expressing measured optimism about the direction of the discussions. The talks, brokered through Omani mediators, reportedly produced agreement on broad guiding principles for future negotiations.
Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed after the session that a framework was emerging, though he stressed that a final agreement remained distant. Both sides exchanged views on how Iran might limit its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from the sweeping US sanctions that have battered Iran’s economy for years.
Central to the discussions was the fate of Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile — roughly 40 kilograms of near-weapons-grade material. Iran offered to dilute this stockpile in what officials described as a goodwill measure, while also presenting proposals for expanded IAEA access to bombed nuclear facilities.
Behind the diplomatic progress, however, political pressures mounted at home for both parties. In Iran, tens of thousands mourned victims of recent protests on the 40th day since their deaths, a solemn milestone in Shia tradition. President Pezeshkian appeared visibly grief-stricken at a ceremony attended by families of the killed.
Meanwhile, the US continued its military buildup in the region, and President Trump sent mixed signals — praising Iran’s apparent willingness to negotiate while simultaneously highlighting the naval presence near its shores. A follow-up meeting is expected within a fortnight to narrow the remaining gaps.