Iran has affirmed that it is negotiating “with full force” with the European trio of France, Britain, and Germany to avoid the re-imposition of international sanctions threatened by European powers. This comes ahead of a Geneva meeting to discuss the resumption of nuclear inspections and diplomacy. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei emphasized focusing on avoiding costly steps or incidents for the country. The talks are tense amid Iran’s anger over US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear facilities. The European trio threatens to activate the UN Security Council’s snapback sanctions mechanism by October 18, when the 2015 nuclear deal expires. Iran has repeatedly ruled out direct talks with Washington. Western reports indicate Iran has enriched uranium up to 60%, approaching the 90% needed for nuclear weapons, though actual weapon production would take longer.

The IAEA cannot guarantee Iran’s nuclear program is fully peaceful and has no reliable evidence of a coordinated weapons program. Despite severe damage to enrichment sites, Iran has not allowed IAEA inspectors to enter since attacks, citing safety concerns. The status of Iran’s large enriched uranium stockpile remains unclear. Western officials suspect Iran is using delaying tactics in negotiations. The European powers aim to determine Iran’s sincerity in talks, while Tehran warns of a harsh response if sanctions are reimposed.