Iran and the United States are engaged in delicate dance steps in Geneva as I write this. They intend to address decades-old animus over Iran’s nuclear program. The talks follow months of halted discussions, and after the re-escalation of Iran’s nuclear program. As they face off, the debate centers intensely on a few central topics. This includes Iran’s enrichment levels, its HEU stockpile, and the easing of economic sanctions that have crippled the Iranian economy since the US abandonment of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018.
Tehran underwent extensive damage to its nuclear capacities and facilities as a result of a 12-day war. Unlike previous years, the city is at least willing to discuss imposing limits on the expansion of its nuclear program. Iranian officials insist that any deal should bring demonstrable economic positives. Iran currently possesses a stockpile of around 400 kg of HEU. Second, they are prepared to engage on limitations on this stockpile as part of any bigger deal. In spite of that, it has been adamant that its insistence on zero enrichment is not part of the ongoing negotiations.
Stalemate and Renewed Efforts
Since the US withdrew from the JCPOA, the majority of sanctions on Iran have either stayed the same or been further escalated. This withdrawal allowed Iran to quickly speed up its nuclear program. Consequently, anti-American sentiments and distrust between the two countries skyrocketed. This first, and perhaps most important, round of negotiations will be a decisive moment. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is doing his best to define a good deal, not just any deal.
“I am in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal,” – Abbas Araghchi
Even with these lofty ideals of consultation, Iranian officials have been transparent about their demands. They call for a lifting of economic sanctions that is effective, practical and publicly verifiable. This requirement has turned into one of their negotiation strategy’s bedrock requirements.
Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, echoed this sentiment, stating that “the ball is in America’s court. They have to prove they want to have a deal with us.” He sounded possibility of an agreement growing if the US can show good faith in negotiations.
The Role of Inspection Agreements
As these conversations move forward, the potential for new pre-inspection agreements to serve as centers of attention. Additionally, Tehran seems to be ready to agree to limitations by enrichment level. They are willing, it seems, to codify a heavy inspection regime – as one created under the now suspended 2015 JCPOA. Araghchi emphasized that the US needs to be prepared to negotiate on sanctions. At the same time, Iran is prepared to address issues related to its nuclear program.
“If they are ready to talk about sanctions, we are ready to discuss this and other issues related to our nuclear programme,” – Abbas Araghchi
Achieving consensus will not be straightforward. The situation following the June 2025 strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities has added new layers of complications. These last few conflagrant years have made the world of negotiations radically different and engendered deep mistrust on both sides about the good faith of the other’s negotiating position.
Iranian authorities have insisted that any deal without serious economic benefits would be unacceptable. They reject the notion of capitulating under pressure, with Araghchi stating emphatically, “What is not on the table: submission before threats.”
Future Prospects
The current negotiations represent a critical juncture in US-Iran relations, with both sides aware that progress hinges on mutual concessions. Iranian negotiators have indicated flexibility to meet halfway. They continue to urge that the US must meet their rhetoric with tangible actions by relaxing sanctions in exchange for doing so.
Majid Takht-Ravanchi pointed out that sincerity from the US side could pave the way for meaningful discussions. “If they are sincere, I am sure we will be on the road to an agreement.”
As these negotiations continue, stakeholders are careful but optimistic. The intricacies of Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the geopolitical implications of any possible deal shine a bright light on the stakes at play. The world is looking with great scrutiny. The result of these negotiations will lay the foundation for regional stability and international relations for decades.