Iran to Submit Nuclear Proposal as U.S. Boosts Military Presence in Middle East

Iran is expected to deliver a written proposal outlining how it plans to resolve its ongoing standoff with the United States following indirect U.S.-Iran talks held in Geneva this week, according to a senior U.S. official. The diplomatic discussions come amid rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and a significant U.S. military buildup in the Middle East.

During the Geneva talks on Tuesday, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met indirectly with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in an effort to ease the escalating crisis. Washington is pressing Tehran to halt its nuclear program, citing concerns over potential atomic weapons development. Iran has repeatedly denied pursuing nuclear weapons and maintains that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes.

The United States is also seeking to broaden negotiations to address Iran’s ballistic missile program and other regional security concerns. However, Iranian officials have stated they are only willing to negotiate limitations on their nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Tehran has firmly rejected demands to completely abandon uranium enrichment or to include its missile capabilities in the talks.

Following the Geneva meeting, Iran agreed to submit a formal written proposal addressing U.S. concerns. “We are currently waiting for that from the Iranians,” the senior U.S. official said, signaling that Washington views the proposal as a critical next step in diplomatic efforts.

Meanwhile, top U.S. national security advisers convened at the White House Situation Room to review developments. President Donald Trump has ordered an expanded military presence in the region, including the deployment of a second aircraft carrier strike group. Officials confirmed that full U.S. forces are expected to be in place by mid-March.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on February 28 to discuss Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional security, underscoring the high stakes surrounding U.S.-Iran relations.