Pezeshkian Reiterates Peaceful Nuclear Stance Ahead of Decisive Geneva Talks

Speaking on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Pezeshkian emphasized that since the Supreme Leader has banned weapons of mass destruction, Tehran has no doctrinal or political path toward building an atomic bomb. He stated that his administration remains committed to a peaceful nuclear program within the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and is ready to resolve any "ambiguities" through cooperation.

These comments come as the third round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States began in Geneva today. The talks, mediated by Oman, are being viewed as a critical "last-ditch" effort to prevent a major military escalation in the Middle East. While Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed optimism that a "fair, balanced, and equitable deal" is within reach, the diplomatic atmosphere remains heavy with tension. U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are leading the American side, following President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday where he accused Tehran of "sinister nuclear ambitions."

Despite the diplomatic opening, Washington continues to maintain a "maximum pressure" stance. On Wednesday, U.S. Vice President JD Vance claimed the U.S. has seen evidence that Iran is attempting to rebuild elements of its nuclear program following U.S. strikes last June. Vance warned that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains a "ultimate military objective" for the Trump administration. Simultaneously, Secretary of State Marco Rubio insisted that any new agreement must also address Iran's ballistic missile program—a condition Tehran has consistently refused to put on the negotiating table.