Iran has signaled willingness to make nuclear concessions in negotiations with the United States, including shipping half its highly enriched uranium abroad and diluting the remainder. Tehran is seeking U.S. recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment and the lifting of economic sanctions. The Iranian official said the country would also allow U.S. companies to participate as contractors in its oil and gas industries.

Both sides remain divided over the scope and sequencing of sanctions relief following two rounds of talks. The White House has not responded to queries about the new concessions. Washington views enrichment inside Iran as a potential pathway to nuclear weapons, while Tehran denies seeking weapons and wants its right to enrich uranium recognized. The International Atomic Energy Agency last year estimated Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium at more than 440 kg.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expects to meet with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva, expressing optimism about a diplomatic solution. However, tensions remain high as the U.S. builds up military capability in the Middle East. Behnam Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies said Iran is seeking to buy time through talks to avoid strikes and harden its nuclear facilities. The negotiations continue as both sides attempt to reach a logical timetable for lifting sanctions.