Iran Says Deal With US ‘Within Reach’ Only If Diplomacy Takes Precedence
Fresh negotiations scheduled as tensions simmer over nuclear programme and regional security
Iran, Feb 25 : Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said a potential agreement with the United States is “within reach” provided diplomacy remains the primary path forward, days before a new round of negotiations in Geneva.
Talks are set for Thursday, with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner expected to meet an Iranian delegation. The renewed engagement comes amid heightened tensions, including a US military build up in the Middle East and warnings from Tehran that it would target American bases in the region if attacked.
In a post on X, Araqchi described the moment as a “historic opportunity” to secure an unprecedented accord addressing mutual concerns and shared interests. He said Iran would enter the discussions determined to reach a fair and equitable settlement swiftly.
Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi echoed that stance, stating Tehran was prepared to take all necessary steps to finalise an agreement in good faith.
On the US side, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump prioritises diplomacy but remains prepared to use force if required.
According to a senior Iranian official, Tehran is weighing a proposal that could involve sending part of its highly enriched uranium abroad, diluting the remainder, and participating in a regional enrichment consortium. In exchange, Iran would seek formal recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment and the lifting of economic sanctions.
Previous indirect negotiations stalled over Washington’s insistence that Iran abandon domestic uranium enrichment, which the US views as a potential route to nuclear weapons. Iran has consistently denied pursuing such arms.
The renewed dialogue follows last year’s US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which Washington said significantly degraded Tehran’s enrichment capabilities. However, Iran is believed to retain previously enriched stockpiles, a central issue in the ongoing diplomatic push.
