US-Iran Talks Set for Thursday in Geneva, Confirmed by Oman's Foreign Minister

Oman's Foreign Minister has confirmed that the next round of US-Iran talks will take place in Geneva on Thursday, focusing on a diplomatic resolution to the nuclear issue.

The upcoming discussions between the United States and Iran are set for Thursday in Geneva, as announced by Oman's Foreign Minister, Badr al-Busaidi. This announcement follows a statement from Tehran's top diplomat, who anticipates meeting US envoy Steve Witkoff. Oman has previously facilitated indirect talks regarding Iran's nuclear programme, including the recent round in Geneva. The White House has not yet commented on this development.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian shared on social media that recent negotiations have involved practical proposals and yielded positive signals. However, he noted that Iran remains vigilant of US actions and is prepared for any scenario. Both nations have indicated readiness for conflict if nuclear programme talks fail. Iran insists its nuclear ambitions are peaceful, though the US and others suspect otherwise.

Protests in Iran

As new talks were confirmed, anti-government protests erupted in Iran. Witnesses reported demonstrations by university students in Tehran and another city, marking memorials for those killed in a crackdown six weeks ago. Iran's state news agency noted protests at five universities in Tehran and one in Mashhad. These protests followed 40-day memorials for those killed during January's anti-government rallies.

The Iranian government has not commented on these latest protests. Many Iranians have held ceremonies marking the traditional 40-day mourning period recently. Most protesters were reportedly killed around January 8 and 9, according to activists monitoring the situation. The crackdown on earlier protests was the deadliest under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's rule.

Nuclear Programme Discussions

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told CBS that there remains a good chance for a diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue, which is the sole topic of discussion. He mentioned that Iran continues to work on a draft proposal and has the right to enrich uranium. Araghchi noted that US counterparts have not demanded zero enrichment, contrary to public statements by US officials.

The Trump administration has sought concessions from Iran while increasing US military presence in the Middle East. President Donald Trump warned of possible limited strikes against Iran, even as Araghchi anticipated a deal soon. Talks had stalled after Trump's 2018 withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Historical Context of Protests

During the 1979 Islamic Revolution, 40-day memorials for slain protesters often turned into rallies that security forces tried to suppress, leading to more deaths and subsequent protests. Social media posts over the weekend alleged that security forces attempted to restrict attendance at some 40-day ceremonies.

The Human Rights Activists News Agency, based in the US, reports at least 7,015 people were killed in previous protests and crackdowns, including 214 government forces. The group relies on activists within Iran to verify deaths despite disrupted communications. The Iranian government reported 3,117 deaths from previous protests on January 21.

Iran has historically underreported fatalities from unrest. The Associated Press has been unable to independently verify the death toll due to restricted internet access and international calls within Iran.

With inputs from PTI