EU Diplomat Enrique Mora has highlighted a recent "honest exchange" with Iranian diplomats. These discussions addressed Iran's military support for Russia, its nuclear program, regional tensions in the Middle East, and human rights issues. The meeting was a precursor to further talks involving Iran, Germany, France, and the UK.
The upcoming discussions aim to address the concerns raised by a resolution introduced by these European nations at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) meeting. This resolution urges Iran to adhere to its commitments regarding its nuclear program. Western states remain apprehensive about Iran's use of enriched uranium for nuclear weapons, which Iran denies. The IAEA reports Iran possesses uranium enriched to 60%, with the potential to reach the 90% level required for weapons.
Reacting to the resolution, Iran announced plans to deploy "new advanced centrifuges," potentially increasing its uranium enrichment capacity significantly. The Geneva meeting will cover more than just the nuclear dispute, including various regional and international issues, such as the situations in Palestine and Lebanon.
The urgency for diplomatic solutions is heightened by the impending change in the US administration. President-elect Donald Trump's previous withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and the reintroduction of sanctions have accelerated tensions. Iran subsequently felt released from its obligations under the agreement. With a new US government on the horizon, the window for diplomatic negotiation is narrowing, making these discussions even more critical.