Iran and the United States cited progress in talks toward reaching a final nuclear deal, though comments from both sides highlighted the fragile state of negotiations. Hours after US Vice President JD Vance left Switzerland on June 22 after a round of discussions, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that 'significant steps' had been taken, but warned that 'major gaps' remain on sanctions relief and verification mechanisms.
According to a State Department spokesperson, the US delegation described the talks as 'constructive' and noted 'some convergence' on uranium enrichment limits, but emphasized that 'no breakthrough' was achieved. The negotiations, mediated by Oman and Qatar, aim to revive the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the US withdrew from in 2018 under President Donald Trump.
Iran insists on full removal of all sanctions imposed since 2018, while the US demands verifiable steps to limit Iran's enrichment to 3.67% and dismantle advanced centrifuges. A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that 'the US still hasn't offered a clear commitment to lift all sanctions.'
Both sides agreed to continue technical-level talks in Vienna next week, with the next high-level meeting tentatively scheduled for mid-July. Analysts caution that while progress is positive, the window for a deal may narrow as Iran's enrichment capabilities expand.
