Geneva: US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker stated that President Donald Trump maintains control over all decisions related to Iran, while expressing a willingness to explore diplomatic solutions. Whitaker's comments came as indirect nuclear negotiations wrapped up in Geneva, Switzerland.

According to Anadolu Agency, Whitaker highlighted the US administration's unwavering stance, noting that Trump has been explicit in his position that Iran, identified as a leading state sponsor of terrorism, must not acquire nuclear weapons or the capability to develop them. He referenced Operation Midnight Hammer, a military initiative from June 2025 that targeted Iran's nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, as evidence of the US's readiness to act decisively.

The ambassador also pointed to an increased military presence in the region, with the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and plans to send the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, underscoring the potential for military action if diplomatic efforts fail. Whitaker conveyed Trump's warning that failure of diplomacy could result in severe consequences for Iran.

The second round of indirect nuclear discussions between the US and Iran, facilitated by Omani mediators, concluded in Geneva. The negotiations involved exchanges on nuclear, legal, and economic issues, with both parties holding separate meetings with Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi at the Omani Embassy.

Following the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the two nations had agreed on a set of "guiding principles" to form the foundation for drafting a potential agreement. This meeting followed an initial round of discussions in Muscat earlier in the month, marking the resumption of diplomatic efforts after an eight-month pause caused by the Iran-Israel conflict last June.