Tehran witnessed another key diplomatic exchange as IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi engaged in a phone conversation with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday. The Iranian Foreign Ministry disclosed details of this Saturday evening call, highlighting ongoing efforts to navigate nuclear tensions.
The discussion centered on recent developments in indirect talks between Iran and the United States. Araghchi emphasized Iran’s constructive role, underscoring Tehran’s commitment to diplomacy in safeguarding its legitimate rights to peaceful nuclear energy under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and international law.
Grossi described the Geneva talks as ‘positive’ and expressed the IAEA’s readiness to support the framework’s evolution. Both leaders stressed the value of constructive engagement and dialogue to forge a lasting agreement.
This marks the second such call within a week. On Wednesday, they had reviewed Geneva outcomes and negotiation mechanisms. Iran indicated that the next step involves finalizing a draft proposal for US envoy Steve Witkoff, potentially leading to serious talks within a week.
Regional developments also featured in the conversation, with Iran pushing for a fair deal. Just last week on February 16, Araghchi met Grossi in Geneva ahead of the second round of indirect US-Iran nuclear discussions. That meeting aimed at strategic preparation and clarifying Iran’s stance.
Post-meeting, Araghchi posted on X: ‘I’m in Geneva with real ideas for a right and equal deal.’ Iran appears open to a pact offering sanctions relief.
Oman has been mediating, hosting the first round in Muscat, followed by Geneva. Araghchi called the Geneva talks ‘very good,’ covering Iran’s nuclear program and US sanctions. However, US statements, including President Trump’s February 19 remark giving Iran 10 days, cast doubts on progress.
These interactions signal a delicate balance in nuclear diplomacy, with all eyes on potential breakthroughs amid heightened stakes.