Tensions in the nuclear saga between Iran and the West reached a fever pitch in Geneva, where Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met IAEA chief Rafael Grossi just before the second phase of US-Iran parleys. Grossi posted meeting snaps, noting completion of ‘intensive technical deliberations’ with the Iranian minister to prep for vital dialogues.
Araghchi previewed his itinerary on X, outlining Monday’s deep-dive with Grossi, Tuesday’s prelude with Oman’s Badr al-Busaidi, and the main event with US officials. ‘Here with concrete proposals for an equitable resolution,’ he declared.
At the core: IAEA’s unanswered queries on 440 kg of high-enrichment uranium post-June Israel-US bombings. The agency insists on unfettered access to Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan for inspections.
Echoing urgency, Deputy FM Majid Takht-Ravanchi challenged the US to prove its diplomatic bona fides. Recent Oman contacts suggest peaceful intent, he said in an interview. ‘It’s Washington’s move to validate a deal’s pursuit. Sincerity paves the way forward,’ adding war’s universal toll.
The US lineup features Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, White House-confirmed. Amid Rubio’s diplomacy emphasis, Trump’s openness to all tools looms large.
Iran upholds its nuclear endeavors as non-military, despite nearing-weapons-grade 60% enrichment. Trump rebuffs any such capacity outright, signaling the carrier USS Gerald R. Ford’s Middle East surge Friday—coupled with change-Iran-leadership calls.
These pre-talks underscore the razor’s edge: potential accord or spiraling crisis, with global security hanging in balance.