Iran Drafts Framework for Future US Talks

Tehran has begun drafting a framework for future negotiations with Washington, according to Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi, as tensions remain high over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Speaking on Wednesday, Araghchi said Iran is working on an “initial and coherent framework” to guide upcoming discussions with the United States. His remarks come amid intensified diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing potential US military intervention in the region, where Washington has increased its military presence.

Iran and the United States recently concluded a second round of negotiations in Geneva, mediated by the Sultanate of Oman. The talks follow last year’s collapse of dialogue after Israel’s strike on Iran in June, which triggered a brief 12-day conflict between the two regional rivals.

Araghchi stated earlier that Tehran and Washington had agreed on certain “guiding principles” during the latest discussions. However, US Vice President JD Vance indicated that Iran has yet to fully acknowledge all of Washington’s “red lines.”

On Wednesday, Araghchi also held a telephone conversation with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency. According to Iran’s foreign ministry, the call focused on advancing negotiations and maintaining communication with the UN nuclear watchdog.

Meanwhile, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright warned that Washington would prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons “one way or the other,” reinforcing the firm stance taken by US officials.

Despite the ongoing tensions, both sides appear to be keeping diplomatic channels open, raising cautious hopes for progress in the coming weeks.