Iran has released European detainees in an apparent bid to reduce tensions with European powers. This move coincides with the start of a second round of closed-door talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal.
The timing comes just days before US President Donald Trump, known for his “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran, was set to begin his second term.
European diplomats from France, Germany, and the UK met with their Iranian counterparts to address disputes and attempt to break the deadlock in nuclear negotiations. These talks follow a secret meeting two months ago in Geneva, which ended without progress.
Western nations remain alarmed by Iran’s nuclear advancements. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports that Iran is the only country enriching uranium to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels, far beyond what is needed for civilian purposes.
Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, claiming its program is peaceful. However, Western powers argue there is no legitimate reason for enrichment at such high levels unless it aims to produce nuclear weapons.
With negotiations stalling, both sides face growing pressure to find a diplomatic solution and avoid further escalation.
Germany’s Foreign Ministry clarified that the ongoing discussions are “consultations,” not formal negotiations.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the talks, expected to last several days, will address a wide range of issues. He added that Iran’s main goal is to lift sanctions, while also listening to concerns raised by other parties.
France’s Foreign Ministry called the meeting a sign of European commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear program, which remains a major concern due to its rapid progress.
The talks come as Iran faces growing regional challenges, including Israeli strikes on its allies Hamas and Hezbollah, and the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, a key partner in the region.
Iran hopes these efforts will help ease tensions and improve its standing with Europe as diplomatic pressure mounts.
