Geneva – The high-stakes US-Iran nuclear talks have begun in Geneva as Washington pushes Tehran to curb its uranium enrichment programme and prevent the development of nuclear weapons.
President Donald Trump has increased military pressure in the Middle East ahead of negotiations, signalling that the United States wants a firm agreement. Iran, however, insists it will not completely abandon uranium enrichment, calling it its right under international law.
Before last year’s strikes on its nuclear sites, Iran had enriched uranium up to 60 per cent purity, close to weapons-grade level. The International Atomic Energy Agency says verification of Iran’s remaining stockpile remains incomplete.
The collapse of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action continues to cast a shadow over negotiations. Diplomats say any new deal under the US-Iran nuclear talks would likely limit enrichment levels, reduce uranium stockpiles and enforce strict international inspections.
With tensions running high, the outcome of the US-Iran nuclear talks could shape security across the Middle East.