Iran Rejects Uranium Demand as Geneva Talks with US Collapse.

US-Iran Negotiations in Geneva

According to TSN.ua: On February 26, 2023, US and Iranian officials held talks in Geneva. The American delegation was represented by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Despite efforts from both sides, no agreement was reached. The United States demanded the dismantling of three Iranian nuclear facilities located in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and insisted on a permanent nuclear deal.

Stances of the Parties

Former US President Donald Trump stated that Iran continues to develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. He also raised the possibility of military action should diplomatic efforts fail. Iran, for its part, rejected the demand to transfer its uranium stockpiles abroad and refused to cease uranium enrichment.

Nevertheless, Oman's Foreign Minister and a US representative reported some progress in the talks. Technical consultations between the parties may continue in Vienna next week. Further steps in the negotiations remain uncertain, as the positions of both countries are still far apart.

These talks occur against a backdrop of rising regional tensions and international concern over Iran's nuclear ambitions. The 2015 nuclear deal, from which the US withdrew in 2018, remains a central point of contention. Despite minor progress, the failure to agree on core issues underscores the complexity of the situation and the potential difficulties in reaching a stable future agreement. The upcoming consultations in Vienna may prove a critical juncture for the diplomatic efforts of both sides.