Overview

• Michael Anton, a senior State Department official, has been appointed by President Trump to lead the U.S. technical delegation in nuclear talks with Iran.
• The second round of negotiations, held in Rome, concluded with both sides reporting progress on principles and objectives, though substantive gaps persist.
• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the 2015 JCPOA is inadequate and emphasized the need for revised terms in any new agreement.
• The U.S. has signaled openness to a deal allowing Iran to import enriched uranium fuel, while maintaining military strikes as a negotiation lever.
• IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi described the talks as serious and constructive, reflecting a commitment from both parties to reach a resolution.