Iran faces deadline from US to finalize deal — Axios
Iran is offered new round of talks with a condition to be met (illustrative photo: Getty Images)
The United States is ready to hold another round of talks with Iran in Geneva next Friday, provided Tehran submits a detailed proposal within 48 hours, Axios reports.
Washington views the current diplomatic process as likely the last chance for an agreement before President Donald Trump could move toward a large-scale military operation involving the US and Israel.
The American side is awaiting an official initiative from Tehran. Presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner plan to arrive in Geneva on February 27 if Iran submits its proposal in the coming days.
According to a US official, once the document is received, the parties could begin detailed negotiations on the parameters of a potential deal. Washington is also open to temporary arrangements as an interim step before a full-fledged agreement.
During previous talks, US representatives communicated to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi that the United States demands a complete halt to uranium enrichment in Iran. However, the White House is reportedly open to limited or symbolic enrichment if it ensures that nuclear weapons cannot be produced.
Minister Araghchi stated that Iran is finalizing its proposal and will submit it after approval by Tehran's political leadership.
Meanwhile, some US politicians are pushing for a tougher approach. Senator Lindsey Graham publicly criticized advice from Trump's circle to refrain from military action, warning that delays could have serious consequences.
Trump's advisors have noted that the president retains the ability to change course at any time, though parts of his team currently favor continuing diplomatic efforts.
Various options for increasing pressure on Tehran are reportedly being discussed in Washington. These range from limited strikes on military infrastructure to a broader campaign that could carry significant political consequences for Iran's leadership.
The urgency stems from the Iranian nuclear program reaching a critical point. The White House has suggested that Iran could prevent US strikes by agreeing to new deal terms. Instead of fully winding down its program, Tehran is proposing exchanges of oil and aircraft for sanctions relief.
