Why it matters:
The Geneva talks test whether Washington is prepared to recognize Iran’s lawful nuclear rights and lift sanctions, a core demand of Tehran and a benchmark for any sustainable agreement.
The big picture:
Indirect negotiations, facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, reflect Iran’s principled approach to diplomacy while exposing continued U.S. hesitation to fully abandon pressure-based policies that have failed across West Asia.
What he's saying:
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran’s delegation arrived with full readiness and seriousness, stressing that proposals focus squarely on sanctions relief and safeguarding Iran’s nuclear rights.
Ali Shamkhani, Secretary of Iran’s Defense Council, underlined that Iran’s commitment to not pursuing nuclear weapons is rooted in the fatwa of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, adding that Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi has full authority and backing to reach an agreement.
What they're saying:
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said negotiators exchanged “creative and positive ideas,” confirming that talks paused to allow both sides to consult before resuming later in the day.
Russian Federation Council Vice Speaker Konstantin Kosachev said Moscow supports de-escalation around Iran and is ready to assist in implementing any concrete agreements reached.
Key points:
- Talks began around 9:45 a.m. Geneva time at a diplomatic venue belonging to Oman.
- Albusaidi separately met the U.S. negotiating team to convey Iran’s positions and hear Washington’s responses.
- Oman reaffirmed its sustained commitment to facilitating dialogue and narrowing differences.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency’s director general held consultations with the Omani foreign minister alongside the talks.
- Negotiations are set to resume in the afternoon session.
Go deeper:
Iran has consistently emphasized that its nuclear program is peaceful and fully compatible with international law, while decades of U.S.-led sanctions have failed to coerce Tehran. The Geneva process underscores Iran’s strategic patience and reliance on regional diplomacy, with Oman playing a stabilizing role. Any future agreement will hinge on verifiable sanctions removal and respect for Iran’s sovereign rights, setting a precedent for resistance-oriented diplomacy across West Asia.
ahmad shirzadian - A.Akbari
