Second Round of Iran-US Nuclear Talks Ends Without Breakthrough in Geneva
Progress Reported but Key Gaps Remain Ahead of Next Meeting
A second round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States concluded in Geneva without a breakthrough, though both sides indicated that some progress had been achieved and further discussions are expected within two weeks.
Officials from both delegations said the talks, which lasted over three hours, focused primarily on Iran’s nuclear programme and potential steps to bridge differences. A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said progress was made but acknowledged that several details remain unresolved. The official said Iranian negotiators would return with more detailed proposals to address outstanding gaps before a third round of talks is convened.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the discussions as more substantive than the previous round earlier this month. In remarks carried by Iranian state media, he said the two sides had engaged in serious dialogue and agreed upon a set of guiding principles for moving forward.
The negotiations come amid heightened regional tensions. President Donald Trump has warned that failure to secure an agreement could prompt military action against Iran, though he has not specified a deadline. Iranian officials have maintained that a deal remains possible but have cautioned that diplomacy requires time.
Adding to the pressure, Iran conducted a second day of military drills near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor for global oil shipments. The manoeuvres were widely interpreted as a signal of Tehran’s capacity to disrupt maritime traffic if tensions escalate.
Geneva also hosted parallel diplomatic efforts involving Russian, Ukrainian and U.S. representatives aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, underscoring the Swiss city’s central role in high-stakes international negotiations.
Washington is seeking stringent curbs to prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon, while Iran is pressing for relief from extensive U.S. sanctions that have strained its economy and intensified domestic challenges.
No date has yet been formally announced for the next round of talks. [KNT]
