Diplomatic Progress in Geneva Overshadowed by Military Warnings in U.S.–Iran Talks

Indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran showed signs of diplomatic progress during a recent round of talks in Geneva, even as both sides continued to signal that military options remain on the table.

According to media reports, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the third round of discussions as the most intensive so far, noting that the negotiations produced new progress and that both sides agreed to hold a fourth round next week.

Despite the diplomatic momentum, U.S. officials have maintained that military action remains a possible option. Vice President JD Vance said the Pentagon would not engage in a prolonged war to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, but noted that targeted strikes remain under consideration. He emphasized that the final decision rests with President Donald Trump.

Iranian military officials warned that any attack would be met with a decisive response, stressing that Iran is closely monitoring military movements in the region.

Reports also indicated that Trump recently met with the commander of U.S. Central Command to review possible military scenarios, ranging from limited strikes targeting ballistic missile launch platforms and nuclear facilities to broader operations against multiple sites across Iran.

The combination of diplomatic engagement and military preparations has heightened concerns about a potential direct confrontation between Washington and Tehran, raising fears of further instability in an already volatile region.