The United States says it has seen evidence that Iran is attempting to rebuild elements of its nuclear programme raising fresh concerns as Washington and Tehran prepare for renewed nuclear talks in Geneva aimed at averting a wider conflict. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance told reporters that despite strikes last year on Iranian nuclear sites intelligence shows Tehran may be moving to restore capabilities that many Western officials fear could be used for weapons development a claim Tehran has repeatedly denied and insists its programme is for peaceful purposes only.
Vance stressed the core U.S. position that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon saying the principle behind U.S. policy is simple: no nuclear arms for Iran and that this stance guides both diplomatic efforts and the significant military presence positioned in the Middle East as talks resume. He also noted that U.S. envoys including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will meet Iranian counterparts in Geneva to see if progress can be made on a deal that would address longstanding concerns.
Iran for its part has dismissed U.S. statements about its nuclear and missile programmes as “big lies,” accusing Washington of exaggerating Tehran’s intentions and seeking to undermine its sovereign right to civilian nuclear activity even as both sides agree negotiations are ongoing. The backdrop to these talks includes continued mistrust and contrasting views on verification and enforcement of any agreement with each side under domestic pressure to defend its position.
As the world watches closely the outcome of these negotiations could shape regional stability and global non‑proliferation efforts with U.S. officials warning that if diplomacy fails other options remain on the table to prevent a nuclear‑armed Iran.
