On December 11, 2024, representatives from Iran and the E3 group, consisting of the UK, France, and Germany, convened in Geneva to discuss the faltering Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) regarding Iran's nuclear program. The JCPOA, which aims to offer Iran sanctions relief in exchange for verifiable limits on its nuclear weapons development, has faced significant challenges since the United States withdrew from the agreement in 2018.
The recent talks followed the rejection by the US, UK, and EU of Iran's proposal to cap uranium enrichment at 60% and permit additional inspections of nuclear facilities. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief, Rafael Grossi, had previously described Iran's offer as a positive step, yet it did not meet the expectations of the Western signatories.
As of October 2023, the E3 maintained sanctions on Iran, citing the country’s consistent non-compliance with JCPOA commitments. The situation remains critical, with the potential for the reimposition of UN Security Council sanctions after the nuclear deal expires in October 2025. The Geneva discussions were viewed as an opportunity to avert this outcome and possibly ease some sanctions.
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi initially characterized the talks as 'progressive,' although he later criticized the EU's approach, claiming it lacked seriousness and responsibility. Concurrently, the E3 condemned Iran for escalating uranium enrichment, which is nearing the threshold required for weapons-grade material.
Despite Iran's denials of pursuing nuclear weapons, tensions have escalated, with accusations of political motivations behind the E3's stance. The E3's recent statements indicated concerns over Iran's ongoing nuclear advancements, describing them as unprecedented for a non-nuclear weapons state.
The Biden administration has attempted to revive the JCPOA, but negotiations have stalled. Analysts suggest that Iran's diminishing influence in the Middle East and internal crises present significant obstacles to successful diplomacy. The outcome of these discussions may have lasting implications for regional security and international relations.