Iran Nuclear Deal Edges Closer as Geneva Talks Gather Pace

Iran and world powers edged closer to breaking the decade-long stalemate over the Islamic republic’s nuclear program, saying an initial accord is possible when they convene for a second day of negotiations tomorrow.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif canceled a trip to Rome to extend his stay in Geneva, where he’ll hold a second meeting with European Union foreign-policy chief Catherine Ashton. Zarif said in an interview that the sides have agreed on the framework for an accord, and will try to fill in details tomorrow. His deputy, Abbas Araghchi, said a deal may be reached in Geneva even if that involves extending talks into a third day. Ashton’s spokesman, Michael Mann, said negotiations have entered a “serious phase.”