The United States and Iran will resume nuclear negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, on Monday, amid heightened tensions over Tehran's nuclear program that had raised the prospect of military conflict.
According to Reuters on Thursday, the two countries will hold their third round of nuclear talks on Monday, mediated by Oman. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi confirmed the resumption to Reuters, expressing hope that the talks could "take another step toward a final agreement."
Iran is preparing a compromise proposal contingent on the lifting of economic sanctions and recognition of its right to peaceful uranium enrichment. Tehran is expected to offer to ship half of its highly enriched uranium abroad and dilute the remainder for use in establishing a multinational nuclear fuel consortium. Iran is also likely to propose opening its massive oil and gas industry to U.S. companies.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview with CBS on Thursday, "We have prepared a good draft that reflects the concerns and interests of both sides, and we can reach an agreement quickly." He added, "The U.S. negotiating team is aware of Iran's position, and we have already exchanged concerns." He noted that "a diplomatic solution is entirely possible."
Iran's position for waging war is increasingly weakening. The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday that even if Iran comes under U.S. attack, its allies China and Russia would find it difficult to provide military support, given their own interests with Washington.