Iran has expressed a willingness to move closer to a diplomatic resolution with the United States over its contested nuclear programme, but Tehran insists that Washington must clearly demonstrate its readiness to offer sanctions relief to advance talks, officials said.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC in Tehran on February 15 that the ball is now in America’s court, emphasising that sincere engagement from Washington could create momentum toward an agreement. He reiterated Tehran’s openness to compromise on curbs to its nuclear activities, including proposals to dilute uranium enriched up to 60 percent – a level close to weapons-grade purity that has been a point of contention with Western powers.

However, Iranian officials have linked their flexibility to meaningful talks about lifting sanctions, saying the economic pressure on their country must be addressed as part of any deal. While Tehran has signalled its readiness to discuss these issues, it has not specified whether it seeks full or partial relief from all punitive measures.

The renewed push for diplomacy comes as indirect negotiations between Iran and the US are scheduled to resume in Geneva this week, following an earlier round in Oman aimed at easing tensions that have simmered over months of stalled talks and regional confrontations.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that failing to reach a nuclear agreement could carry severe consequences, including possible military action, and has bolstered America’s military presence in the Middle East in recent weeks. Trump’s administration continues to apply economic pressure, including efforts to curb Iranian oil exports, as part of its broader strategy to limit Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

Despite these threats, Tehran has maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful and denied intentions to develop weapons, insisting that negotiations should be based on mutual respect and clear benefits for Iran.

The latest diplomatic efforts reflect a complex mix of pressure and outreach, with both sides under mounting international and domestic scrutiny as they navigate one of the most consequential foreign policy challenges of the year.