The United States and Iran are set to hold a third round of nuclear talks in Geneva on Thursday amid rising military tensions, as both sides explore the possibility of an agreement.
The Iranian delegation has departed for Geneva, where discussions will focus on Tehran’s nuclear programme. The talks are drawing close attention from the international community, as tensions between the two countries have continued to escalate in recent months.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Wednesday that there was a possibility of positive outcomes from the negotiations. He stated that the process was advancing under the guidance of Iran’s Supreme Leader in order to move away from a situation resembling war. “Regarding the talks, we are hopeful of a good outcome. We are advancing this process with a perspective of peace and balance,” Pezeshkian said.
This marks the third round of discussions between the United States and Iran. The first round was held earlier this month in Muscat, Oman. The second round took place in Geneva on 17 February. The primary objective of these meetings is to reach consensus on disputed issues concerning Iran’s nuclear programme and to maintain peace.
According to senior U.S. officials, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of President Donald Trump, will meet the Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva on Thursday.
On 19 February, President Donald Trump said he was giving Iran 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement. He warned that there could be adverse consequences if the deadline was not met.
The United States has deployed two aircraft carriers to West Asia and increased the concentration of its military forces in the region. The move is aimed at exerting pressure on Iran and strengthening the U.S. position in the negotiations.
Iran has also kept its options open in response to U.S. pressure. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country was fully prepared for both war and peace. He expressed hope that both sides could reach a fair and balanced agreement.
Araghchi stated that Iran would participate in the talks while safeguarding its national security and interests. He said the objective of the negotiations was not only to avoid military conflict but also to achieve a credible and lasting agreement at the international level.
