As military clashes between Israel and Iran escalate, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom will hold nuclear negotiations with the Iranian foreign minister in Geneva, Switzerland, on the 20th (local time), according to a report by Reuters on the 19th. The negotiations are said to be pursued following coordination with the United States.
According to Reuters, the foreign ministers of the three major European countries are expected to first meet with Kaja Kallas, the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, before having a ministerial meeting with Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister. The EU indicated that Kallas would also attend the meeting.
The core objective of this negotiation is to secure a clear assurance that Iran’s nuclear program is limited to civilian purposes and not for military use. The European side anticipates that there will be practical discussions among expert groups following the ministerial meeting.
Reuters assessed that this meeting is noteworthy as it occurs amidst heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran, and is closely tied to potential changes in U.S. policy toward Iran. The U.S. has recently indicated that it may remain open to diplomatic solutions, even as President Trump seems to allow for the possibility of Israeli involvement in military operations against Iran.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated the day before, “It is never too late to sit at the negotiating table,” urging the Iranian leadership for assurances and solutions regarding nuclear matters.