Iran has expressed readiness to consider compromises in order to reach a new nuclear agreement with the United States, provided that Washington is prepared to discuss lifting economic sanctions. The statement comes at a time of heightened diplomatic and military tensions between the two countries.
In an interview with the BBC in Tehran, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said that “the ball is in America’s court to demonstrate that it wants to reach a deal,” adding that if the U.S. is sincere, progress toward an agreement is possible.
U.S. officials, however, have repeatedly stressed that it is Iran—not Washington—that is hindering progress in the lengthy negotiation process. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Donald Trump prefers a diplomatic agreement but warned that achieving one remains “very difficult.”
Trump has threatened military action if a deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program is not reached, while the United States has increased its military presence in the region. These developments follow Iran’s violent crackdown on nationwide anti-government protests last month, which human rights groups report left thousands dead.
Indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran were held in Oman in early February. Takht-Ravanchi confirmed that a second round is scheduled to take place in Geneva, describing the discussions so far as “more or less moving in a positive direction,” though he cautioned that it is still too early to draw conclusions.
As a sign of compromise, Tehran has offered to dilute uranium enriched to 60 percent. This level is close to weapons-grade material and has intensified international concerns that the Islamic Republic may be moving toward developing a nuclear weapon—an allegation Iran has consistently denied.
With another round of negotiations approaching, it remains uncertain whether both sides can overcome deep mistrust and find a formula that ensures limits on Iran’s nuclear program while addressing sanctions relief.
