Trump Claims Iran Seeks a Deal More Urgently Than U.S. Before Geneva Talks

• Iran has proposed sending half of its highly enriched uranium abroad and diluting the rest in exchange for sanctions relief and recognition of its enrichment rights
• Trump has given Iran a two-week deadline to reach a deal and ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel from the U.S. embassy in Beirut amid escalating tensions
• Previous negotiation rounds in Geneva failed to achieve meaningful breakthroughs, though Iranian President Pezeshkian said recent talks yielded 'encouraging signals'

Summary: Trump Claims Iran Seeks a Deal More Urgently Than U.S. Before Geneva Talks

President Donald Trump stated Tuesday that Iran wants a nuclear deal more than the U.S. ahead of the third round of negotiations scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, Switzerland. The key obstacle remains Tehran's refusal to commit to not developing nuclear weapons.

Key Developments:

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Sunday that a proposal is being prepared to address both sides' "concerns and interests," pending political approval in Tehran. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged "encouraging signals" from last week's talks but warned Iran was prepared for "any potential scenario."

Iranian Concessions Under Consideration:

According to a senior Iranian official cited by Reuters, Tehran may agree to send half of its highly enriched uranium abroad, dilute the remainder, and participate in a regional enrichment consortium. In exchange, Iran demands U.S. recognition of its right to nuclear enrichment and lifting of economic sanctions.

Escalating Tensions:

Previous negotiation rounds failed to produce breakthroughs. Trump has threatened limited airstrikes and set a two-week deadline for reaching an agreement. The U.S. has increased military presence in the Middle East and authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel from its Beirut embassy Monday.

Market Context:

The heightened tensions in the oil-rich Middle East region pose risks to energy markets and regional stability. Trump's State of the Union address Tuesday was expected to focus on economic issues as polling shows declining support for his economic handling ahead of November 2026 midterm elections.

The Geneva talks represent a critical juncture in U.S.-Iran relations with significant implications for Middle East security and global energy markets.