A new round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and France, the United Kingdom, and Germany is set to take place in Geneva on January 13, according to Iran’s semi-official ISNA news agency, which cited Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi.
These discussions follow a meeting in November where Iran engaged with the three European nations over its contested nuclear program. The talks occurred after Tehran expressed frustration over a resolution backed by Europe that criticized Iran for inadequate cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
In response to the resolution, Iran informed the IAEA of its plans to expand its uranium-enrichment capabilities by installing additional centrifuges. On December 17, the three European countries accused Iran of significantly increasing its stockpile of highly enriched uranium without a credible civilian justification. They also warned of potentially reinstating sanctions to prevent further nuclear advancements.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated in December that Iran is rapidly advancing its uranium enrichment to 60 percent purity, which is close to the 90 percent threshold needed for weapons-grade material. However, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and denies any intent to develop nuclear weapons.
In 2015, Iran signed a landmark agreement with world powers, including the US, to limit its nuclear activities to address concerns about possible weaponization. But in 2018, then-President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the agreement and reimposed stringent sanctions, prompting Iran to resume activities that breached the accord, such as rebuilding uranium stockpiles, increasing enrichment levels, and deploying advanced centrifuges.
Although indirect talks between the Biden administration and Tehran have yet to yield a revival of the nuclear deal, Trump suggested in September that the need for a deal remains urgent, emphasizing the dire consequences of failing to reach an agreement.
The January 13 talks will occur just one week before Trump potentially returns to the White House.
