Negotiations Advance Amid Technical Discussions Set for Vienna
Iran and the United States concluded their third round of nuclear talks in Geneva this week, with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi announcing "significant progress" on Thursday. Technical-level discussions are scheduled to resume in Vienna next week, following consultations in both capitals.
Key Developments and Sticking Points
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described the talks as having "made very good progress" on nuclear and sanctions-related issues, according to state media. However, disagreements persist, particularly over Iran’s uranium enrichment activities and missile development. The Wall Street Journal reported Iran’s refusal to transfer uranium stockpiles abroad or dismantle nuclear facilities.
U.S. Demands and Regional Tensions
CGTN correspondent Iolo ap Dafydd noted that while both sides showed "unprecedented openness," challenges remain. U.S. demands for third-party inspections of Iranian nuclear sites and curbs on missile capabilities continue to fuel tensions. Ap Dafydd highlighted contradictions in U.S. policy, referencing recent military posturing despite prior claims of neutralizing Iran’s nuclear progress.
As talks proceed, global observers await further clarity on whether diplomatic breakthroughs can outweigh entrenched geopolitical rivalries.
