WASHINGTON: US Vice President JD Vance said on Wednesday that Washington has seen indications Iran is attempting to rebuild its nuclear programme following US-led strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June.
Speaking to reporters, Vance reiterated the administration’s firm stance that Tehran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
“The principle is very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” he said, a day before fresh diplomatic talks between American and Iranian delegations in Geneva.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly maintained that the June strikes effectively destroyed Iran’s key nuclear sites and has vowed to prevent Tehran from reconstituting its nuclear capabilities.
Vance confirmed that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will meet with an Iranian delegation in Geneva on Thursday to assess the possibility of reaching a new agreement.
The talks come amid a significant US military presence in the region, underscoring heightened tensions.
The renewed diplomatic engagement follows months of strained relations after the US-led strikes targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, prompting international concern over escalation and the future of nuclear negotiations.
Officials have not disclosed specific evidence supporting the claim that Iran is rebuilding its programme, but Washington maintains that it is closely monitoring developments as discussions resume.