Why it matters:
These statements reflect the status of the indirect talks between Iran and the United States, which are still underway in Geneva with Oman as the mediator, and tomorrow is scheduled for the second and possibly final round if no agreement is reached. The statements also indicate that both sides are maintaining maximum pressure while showing an open approach to diplomacy.
What he's saying:
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi struck a dual tone, declaring "we are ready for both options, war and peace" while insisting that "reaching a fair, just and balanced agreement is achievable."
He pointed to progress in previous negotiations, stating an agreement could be reached "based on understandings from the second round of talks with America."
The other side:
The U.S. State Department took a harder line, vowing to "use all means to prevent Iran from financing the development of its weapons programs and its destabilizing behavior."
Go deeper:
Iran Insists Sanctions Relief, Recognition of Rights in Talks With U.S.
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
