Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on 20/2 that neither Iran proposed suspending uranium enrichment nor did the US demand a complete cessation. This statement came amid ongoing nuclear negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland.

Araghchi emphasized that current discussions center on ensuring Iran's nuclear program, including its uranium enrichment activities, remains exclusively for peaceful purposes indefinitely. This objective is a core focus of the diplomatic efforts.

To achieve this, Araghchi indicated that Iran would implement "confidence-building measures," encompassing both technical and political aspects, to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its nuclear ambitions. These measures are intended to facilitate the lifting of international sanctions, though he did not provide specific details on their scope.

The foreign minister expressed optimism that a diplomatic agreement between the two nations "is within reach" and could be finalized quickly. He noted that a draft response to US proposals might be ready for review by senior Iranian officials within 2-3 days. Araghchi also suggested that further US-Iran negotiations could take place in about one week.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaking in Geneva, Switzerland on 17/2. *Photo: AFP*

These negotiations occur against a backdrop of longstanding accusations from Western nations that Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons development. Tehran, however, consistently asserts that its nuclear program is for civilian energy and research purposes.

Adding pressure to the talks, US President Donald Trump issued a 10-15 day deadline on 19/2 for Tehran to reach a nuclear agreement, warning of "really bad things" otherwise. The United States is deploying substantial military forces to the Middle East, intensifying its leverage over Iran.

Dialogue between the two countries on this critical issue resumed in Oman on 6/2, with the second round of negotiations currently underway in Switzerland.

By Hong Hanh (Reuters)