In the face of ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi signaled renewed optimism for a breakthrough at upcoming talks. Scheduled to take place in Geneva on Thursday, these discussions mark the latest round of negotiations since both nations increased military presence in the Middle East.
Takht-Ravanchi emphasized Iran’s readiness and commitment to finding a resolution swiftly: “We are ready to reach an agreement as soon as possible. We will do whatever it takes to make this happen. We will enter the negotiating room in Geneva with complete honesty and good faith.” These remarks were conveyed through state media channels.
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed President Donald Trump’s preference for diplomacy but also prepared for contingency plans that include lethal force if necessary. In a contrasting view, a senior Iranian official suggested Tehran might consider sending half of its highly enriched uranium abroad and participating in regional enrichment consortiums, all in return for US recognition of Iran’s right to “peaceful nuclear enrichment” under an agreement lifting economic sanctions.
If attacked or aggressed against by the US, Iran warned it would retaliate according to its defense plans. “A US attack on Iran is a real gamble,” Takht-Ravanchi stressed. These recent actions included the US joining Israel in targeting Iranian nuclear sites last June, with Trump describing these key facilities as being “obliterated.”
Previous attempts at indirect talks last year failed due primarily to disagreements over Iran’s continued uranium enrichment capabilities deemed necessary by Washington for preventing a potential nuclear threat. Tehran consistently denies such intentions.
The dynamic between these adversaries continues to shape the geopolitical landscape in the region, emphasizing the importance of finding paths toward peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels.