Third Round of Iran–US Indirect Talks in Geneva Pauses for Consultations
Oman-mediated negotiations focus on Iran’s nuclear rights and sanctions relief as delegations suspend talks temporarily for internal consultations
Switzerland | PUREWILAYAH.COM — The third round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States formally commenced in Geneva, Switzerland, under the mediation of the Sultanate of Oman, with talks proceeding through multiple sessions before entering a temporary pause for consultations among negotiating teams.
The negotiations began following a high-level meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, signaling the official launch of the third diplomatic round.
Oman’s Mediation and Framework of the Talks
According to Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions are being conducted within the framework of guiding principles agreed upon during the previous round of talks.
These principles emphasize Iran’s legitimate nuclear rights, the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, and the lifting of unilateral and coercive sanctions.
Oman confirmed that Minister Al Busaidi reviewed Iran’s proposals aimed at achieving a balanced and sustainable agreement and is expected to convey Tehran’s positions to the American side while also listening to Washington’s ideas and responses.
Negotiations Continue Despite Media Speculation
Contrary to claims circulated by several Western media outlets suggesting an early breakdown, informed sources confirmed that negotiations have continued since the morning session at a diplomatic venue affiliated with Oman in Geneva.
A temporary pause was later announced to allow both delegations to conduct internal consultations, with talks scheduled to resume in the afternoon.
Oman Expresses Cautious Optimism
In a public statement, Omani Foreign Minister Al Busaidi expressed hope for tangible progress, noting that Iranian and American negotiators had engaged in what he described as “positive and creative exchanges.”
“We exchanged constructive ideas today in Geneva,” he stated, adding that both sides demonstrated openness to innovative solutions and confidence-building measures.
Iran’s Position: Sanctions Relief and Nuclear Rights
Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized that Tehran entered the talks fully prepared and committed to safeguarding national interests.
He reiterated that Iran’s proposals center on two core pillars:
The full lifting of sanctions
Recognition and protection of Iran’s nuclear rights under international law
“These positions have been clearly conveyed to the Omani mediator,” Baghaei said.
Political Backing from Tehran
Senior Iranian official Ali Shamkhani, Secretary of Iran’s Defense Council, affirmed that Araghchi enjoys full institutional backing and the necessary authority to reach an agreement.
Shamkhani stated that if the central concern is ensuring Iran does not pursue nuclear weapons, such assurances already align with Iran’s defense doctrine and the Supreme Leader’s religious decree, making an agreement readily achievable.
Regional and International Reactions
In parallel developments, Russian Senator Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Federation Council, indicated Moscow’s readiness to support the implementation of any potential agreement reached in Geneva, reaffirming Russia’s recognition of Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear activity.
Separately, Omani Foreign Minister Al Busaidi held consultations with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, focusing on technical aspects of Iran’s nuclear file and verification-related discussions.
Earlier in the day, Al Busaidi also met with U.S. representatives, including Steve Witkoff, to relay Iran’s proposals and gather the American side’s feedback regarding technical, monitoring, and guarantee-related issues.
Omani officials described the atmosphere as serious, constructive, and marked by unprecedented receptiveness to new ideas aimed at reaching a fair and durable agreement.
The indirect Iran–US negotiations are set to continue on Thursday with the participation of both delegations through Omani mediation. Tehran maintains that diplomacy remains viable provided Iran’s sovereign rights, national dignity, and economic interests are fully respected.
As talks resume, the focus remains on translating political will into concrete commitments capable of producing a sustainable and balanced outcome. (PW)