Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined strict demands on Iran as the United States prepares for a second round of nuclear negotiations with Tehran in Geneva, raising the stakes in an already tense diplomatic push.
The talks, expected to be mediated indirectly, follow an earlier round that reopened dialogue but produced no breakthrough. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has already traveled to Geneva, signaling Tehran’s willingness to continue discussions despite deep mistrust between the two sides.
Netanyahu has insisted any future agreement must go far beyond limits on uranium enrichment. He called for the removal of all enriched material from Iran and the dismantling of its nuclear infrastructure, warning that anything less would leave Israel exposed to a potential nuclear threat.
Israel also wants negotiations to address Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional proxy groups, long-standing concerns shared by some U.S. officials.
The United States says it remains committed to diplomacy but is maintaining pressure, including an increased military presence in the Middle East. Officials have reportedly discussed scenarios ranging from continued negotiations to possible military action if talks collapse.
Analysts say the Geneva meeting could determine whether diplomacy gains momentum or tensions escalate further.
Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful and insists it has the right to enrich uranium for civilian use. However, Tehran has hinted it could compromise if sanctions relief is included in any agreement.
Iranian leaders also stress that a deal must bring real economic benefits, reflecting domestic pressure caused by years of sanctions.
The talks come after months of regional tensions and past diplomatic failures that deepened mistrust between Israel, Iran, and the United States. With global attention focused on Geneva, the outcome could shape the future of Middle East stability.
For now, Netanyahu’s tough demands add pressure on Washington’s diplomatic path, underscoring the challenge of reaching a deal that satisfies allies while preventing further nuclear escalation.
