Geneva talks test prospects for US Iran accord

Diplomats from Iran and the United States are preparing to examine a detailed framework for a possible agreement in Geneva, as both sides signal cautious openness to narrowing differences over sanctions relief and nuclear restrictions. The discussions come amid renewed diplomatic activity between Tehran and Washington, with officials framing the meeting as a substantive step rather than a symbolic encounter.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi departed Tehran on Wednesday evening for Geneva to take part in the negotiations, according to state media. President Masoud Pezeshkian said before the delegation’s departure that Tehran saw a “good opportunity” to pursue what he described as a fair and sustainable arrangement, while reiterating that Iran would not compromise on what it considers its sovereign rights.

The proposed framework under review is understood to build on earlier indirect contacts mediated by European intermediaries, with a focus on sequencing commitments. Diplomats familiar with the process indicate that the plan would involve calibrated sanctions relief in exchange for verifiable steps by Iran to limit uranium enrichment levels and expand access for international inspectors. Western officials have stressed that any easing of economic measures would be contingent on measurable compliance with nuclear safeguards.

Tensions between the two countries have persisted since the United States withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement during the presidency of Donald Trump and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Tehran responded by scaling back its commitments under the accord, increasing enrichment beyond the limits set in the original deal. Efforts to restore the agreement under President Joe Biden have faced political headwinds in both capitals, as well as technical disputes over verification and guarantees.

Iranian officials argue that sanctions have imposed heavy economic costs, affecting oil exports, banking access and foreign investment. Pezeshkian, elected on a platform that included economic stabilisation and diplomatic engagement, has indicated support for negotiations aimed at reducing external pressure while safeguarding national interests. His administration faces domestic expectations to secure tangible economic benefits without appearing to concede too much ground.

For Washington, the talks are shaped by concerns over Iran’s expanding nuclear capabilities and regional security dynamics. US officials have repeatedly stated that preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a central objective, while also emphasising the importance of coordination with European allies. The Geneva setting reflects the continued involvement of European actors who were original signatories to the 2015 accord and remain invested in a diplomatic resolution.

Analysts note that the structure of the discussions suggests a more technical phase, with working groups examining specific timelines, verification mechanisms and the scope of sanctions relief. The International Atomic Energy Agency has reported increased enrichment levels in Iran, heightening urgency among Western governments. At the same time, Iranian authorities maintain that their nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes and subject to oversight.

Regional implications are also under scrutiny. Gulf states have pursued cautious engagement with Tehran in parallel with security cooperation with Washington. Any movement towards a US-Iran understanding could influence energy markets, particularly if sanctions affecting oil exports are eased. Market observers say even incremental progress can affect expectations around supply flows, though they caution that implementation would depend on sustained compliance and political backing.

The domestic political context in both countries adds complexity. In Tehran, hardline factions remain sceptical of US intentions, citing past withdrawals from agreements. In Washington, lawmakers across party lines have expressed concerns about the durability and scope of any arrangement. Diplomatic sources say negotiators are aware that a deal perceived as unbalanced could face resistance at home, underscoring the need for clarity and enforceability.

President Pezeshkian has described diplomacy as a means to reduce tensions and improve living conditions, while asserting that Iran will continue its scientific and technological development within international norms. Araghchi, a seasoned diplomat involved in earlier negotiations, is expected to press for assurances that any commitments by Iran will be matched by prompt and verifiable sanctions relief.

US officials have signalled that while the Geneva talks are exploratory, they represent an opportunity to test whether a narrower, phased agreement is feasible. Some experts suggest that instead of attempting a comprehensive restoration of the 2015 accord, negotiators may aim for an interim understanding that stabilises the situation and creates space for broader talks.