US‑Iran Talks Live: Tehran Says Understanding on Main Principles Reached

Negotiators from the United States and the Iran concluded a second round of indirect diplomatic talks in Geneva on Tuesday, with Tehran announcing an “understanding on the main principles” of a possible agreement. While officials cautiously described the progress as a step forward, key disagreements remain and further work is required before any formal deal can be finalized.
The discussions, mediated by representatives from Oman, brought together Iranian and U.S. envoys in a bid to ease longstanding tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. Talks resumed amid mounting international concern about regional security and the risk of escalation, particularly given recent military posturing in the Middle East.
A Tentative Understanding
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters after the Geneva session that Tehran and Washington had reached an understanding on core principles that could underpin future negotiations. According to Araghchi, the discussions were “very serious” and represented a meaningful step in a diplomatic process that has stalled on several occasions.
Araghchi described the relative progress as laying the groundwork “for a deal,” though he emphasized that significant details remained unresolved. Iranian officials did not publicly disclose the specifics of the principles agreed, but said both sides were committed to continuing dialogue.
The U.S. delegation, which participated in the negotiations through indirect channels, has not yet issued a detailed statement on the outcome. However, officials have previously stressed Washington’s insistence on limiting Tehran’s nuclear activities — in particular, curbing enrichment levels — in exchange for sanctions relief.
The Guardian
Regional Tensions and Diplomacy
The talks in Geneva followed earlier rounds of indirect meetings in Muscat and Rome, which also sought to build trust between the two sides. Experts say these mediated discussions aim to narrow the gaps on contentious issues such as uranium enrichment, the scope of international inspections, and economic sanctions.
The negotiations are unfolding against a backdrop of heightened military activity. In recent weeks, Iran conducted naval drills near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipping, and temporarily restricted transit through the waterway — moves that underscored Tehran’s ability to leverage its strategic geography.
At the same time, the U.S. has maintained a strong military presence in the region, including deployments of carrier strike groups intended to deter any escalation. These deployments have added urgency to diplomatic efforts, which both sides say they hope will prevent conflict.
Reuters
Oil Markets and Economic Impact
The diplomatic signals from Geneva had immediate repercussions in global markets. Crude oil futures fell after news of progress in the talks, as traders interpreted the developments as reducing the risk of major supply disruptions tied to geopolitical conflict.
However, analysts caution that oil markets remain sensitive to both diplomatic and military activity in the Persian Gulf region, and that any breakdown in negotiations could quickly reverse the recent price movement.
Remaining Obstacles
Despite the reported understanding on guiding principles, major obstacles remain. Iranian officials continue to assert their right to uranium enrichment under the Non‑Proliferation Treaty, a point of contention for U.S. negotiators. Washington has also pushed for broader limitations on Iran’s ballistic missile program and support for allied militia groups — demands Tehran has been reluctant to accept.
In addition, trust between the two nations is fragile. Iranian officials have repeatedly criticized what they describe as inconsistent messaging from U.S. political actors over the seriousness of Washington’s negotiating intentions, and some in Tehran warn that progress is conditional on the United States engaging in “fair, equitable” dialogue.
What Comes Next
Both sides indicated that their diplomatic teams will return to the drawing board to refine proposals and work on the technical language of a possible agreement. No date has yet been set for a third round of talks, underscoring the difficulty of translating an understanding of principles into a draft treaty text or framework.
For now, the partial breakthrough offers a cautious note of optimism for diplomats and regional leaders who see negotiation as a path to stability. Yet analysts say the long road ahead will require compromise, patience, and careful management of both diplomatic and military pressures if the goal of a comprehensive agreement is to be realized.