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GENEVA (AP) — The United States and Iran concluded several hours of indirect negotiations on Thursday regarding Tehran's nuclear program, but failed to
reach a deal. The outcome leaves the potential for escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly as the U.S. has mobilized a substantial military presence in the region. Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who facilitated the discussions, noted that there was 'significant progress' made, although specific details were not disclosed. Iranian state television reported that Tehran remains committed to its uranium enrichment activities and has dismissed proposals for uranium transfer abroad while seeking the lifting of international sanctions.
Iran's Stance on Nuclear Enrichment
During the negotiations, Iran reiterated its intention to continue enriching uranium and rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's demands. Trump aims for a comprehensive agreement to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities, especially as domestic dissent grows in Iran following recent protests.Despite the pressures, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and has expressed unwillingness to negotiate other contentious issues, such as its missile program or support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Al-Busaidi confirmed that technical discussions would resume next week in Vienna, where the International Atomic Energy Agency is headquartered.
Concerns Over Military Conflict
The potential for military conflict looms large. Iran has warned that any U.S. military action would target American bases in the region, posing risks to thousands of U.S. service members. Iranian officials have also threatened to strike Israel, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.In an interview, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the situation as a 'very terrible scenario,' suggesting that a U.S. attack could embroil the entire region in conflict. He emphasized that the U.S. must consider the consequences of its military presence and actions.
Previous Negotiation Attempts
This round of talks marks the third meeting since a significant escalation in hostilities last June, when Israel launched a military campaign against Iran and the U.S. executed strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The extent of the damage from these strikes remains uncertain, but they have significantly impacted Iran's nuclear program.Araghchi led the Iranian delegation, while the U.S. team was headed by special envoy Steve Witkoff, a close associate of Trump. The discussions were again mediated by Oman, which has historically acted as a go-between for Iran and Western nations.
U.S. Intelligence and Nuclear Program Concerns
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently stated that Iran is persistently attempting to rebuild aspects of its nuclear program, although Tehran claims it has not enriched uranium since June. Nevertheless, satellite imagery has indicated activity at sites previously targeted by U.S. strikes.The International Atomic Energy Agency has long maintained that Iran had a nuclear weapons program until 2003. Following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran increased its uranium enrichment to 60% purity, dangerously close to weapons-grade levels.
Implications of Failed Negotiations
Should negotiations collapse, the timing of a potential U.S. military strike remains uncertain. Limited strikes aimed at pressuring Iran may not yield the desired results, while efforts to remove Iranian leadership could lead to a protracted military engagement.The implications for the region are profound, as Iran could retaliate against U.S. allies in the Persian Gulf or Israel. Recent increases in oil prices reflect these growing concerns, with benchmark Brent crude nearing $70 per barrel. Iran has previously indicated it would temporarily halt traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route.
