Iran has signaled it is willing to compromise on its nuclear program if the United States agrees to lift economic sanctions, marking a potentially significant shift as the two countries resume high-stakes negotiations.

Tehran says a new agreement must deliver economic benefits for both sides, including cooperation in oil, gas, mining, and aviation sectors. Iranian officials stressed that sanctions relief is essential for any deal to succeed and endure.

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Iran is open to adjustments, but the United States must demonstrate its willingness to reach a meaningful agreement.

Talks resume amid tensions and military warnings

Negotiations between Iran and the United States resumed earlier this month and are set to continue in Geneva, mediated by Oman. The discussions aim to resolve the long-running dispute over Iran’s nuclear activities and avoid further military escalation.

The stakes remain high. The United States has increased its military presence in the region, including deploying an additional aircraft carrier, while also preparing contingency plans in case diplomacy fails.

At the same time, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that diplomacy remains the preferred option, although he acknowledged that reaching an agreement may prove difficult.

Iran proposes economic incentives and nuclear concessions

Iran has proposed offering economic cooperation and investment opportunities to help make a deal more attractive to Washington. Iranian officials said joint oil and gas development, mining investments, and aircraft purchases could form part of a broader agreement.

As part of potential concessions, Iran has indicated it could dilute some of its highly enriched uranium in exchange for sanctions relief. However, Tehran insists it will not agree to eliminate uranium enrichment entirely—a major sticking point in previous negotiations.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons.

Economic pressure remains central to negotiations

Economic sanctions remain the key point of dispute. The United States reimposed sweeping sanctions after withdrawing from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal during President Donald Trump’s first term, which had limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

The United States is also working to reduce Iran’s oil exports, particularly to China, which accounts for more than 80% of Iranian oil sales. Any reduction in those exports could significantly impact Iran’s economy and increase pressure on Tehran to reach a deal.

Diplomatic path forward remains uncertain

The current negotiations differ from earlier talks, which included multiple global powers. This time, discussions are primarily between the United States and Iran, with Oman acting as mediator.

Iranian officials say they are prepared to negotiate but expect tangible economic benefits. Meanwhile, Washington has signaled openness to diplomacy while maintaining military and economic pressure.

The outcome of the negotiations could determine whether tensions escalate toward confrontation or move toward renewed diplomatic engagement.

Sources: Associated Press, Agence France‑Presse, BBC News, Al Jazeera, Financial Times, U.S.  Department of the Treasury, International  Atomic Agency