The second round of indirect nuclear talks between the United States and Iran has commenced in Geneva, with Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi acting as mediator. The high-stakes discussions aim to ease tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme and explore the possibility of a diplomatic breakthrough.
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism ahead of the meeting, saying he believes Iran is interested in reaching an agreement. However, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei adopted a sharply defiant stance, issuing a series of warnings directed at Washington.
In three consecutive posts on X, Khamenei asserted that the United States would not succeed in defeating Iran, questioned American military supremacy, and cautioned that US warships deployed near Iranian waters could be vulnerable. His remarks come as the US increases its military presence in the region and Iran conducts naval drills in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The US delegation is led by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while Iran is represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Araghchi said Tehran seeks a “fair and equitable deal” but stressed that submission to threats is not on the table.
The outcome of the Geneva talks is expected to significantly impact regional stability and the future of the Iran nuclear dispute.
