Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced plans for a meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday. Speaking on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Araghchi stressed that a diplomatic path remains viable for resolving tensions over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“There is still a good chance,” Araghchi said, amid reports that President Donald Trump weighs potential military strikes on Iran. The envoy’s trip highlights ongoing U.S. efforts to negotiate curbs on Tehran’s nuclear activities.

Axios earlier reported that U.S. negotiators stand ready for another round of talks in Geneva on Friday. That session hinges on Iran delivering a detailed nuclear deal proposal within 48 hours, according to a senior U.S. official cited in the story.

Araghchi’s comments come as Trump administration officials push for a breakthrough. The U.S. pulled out of the 2015 nuclear accord under Trump in 2018, reimposing sanctions. Iran has since expanded uranium enrichment, prompting fresh diplomatic pushes.

The Geneva talks build on prior indirect discussions between the two sides. U.S. and Iranian teams have met through intermediaries in recent months, focusing on enrichment limits and sanctions relief. Araghchi did not detail the Thursday agenda but signaled optimism.

Trump has alternated between threats of force and calls for negotiation. Last week, he warned Iran against crossing nuclear red lines. White House officials have not confirmed Witkoff’s schedule but described talks as productive so far.

Iran insists its program serves peaceful purposes. Tehran demands full sanctions removal before any curbs. The U.S. seeks verifiable limits on centrifuges and stockpiles, plus inspections.

European allies watch closely. Britain, France and Germany have urged restraint while upholding the 2015 deal’s framework. A failure in Geneva could escalate risks, officials say.

Araghchi praised Witkoff’s approach during the interview. “He’s a serious negotiator,” he noted. The meeting offers a key test for direct engagement after years of standoff.

U.S. officials expect Iran to outline a concrete offer soon. Axios reported the 48-hour window closes late Tuesday. Success could pave the way for broader de-escalation; deadlock might heighten strike risks.

The talks unfold against regional flashpoints. Israel has struck Iranian targets in Syria repeatedly. Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping add pressure on global trade routes.

Araghchi tied diplomacy to mutual respect. He called U.S. threats counterproductive but affirmed Iran’s commitment to the table. Witkoff, a Trump appointee, arrived in Europe last week for preparatory sessions.

Analysts see Thursday’s encounter as key. A detailed Iranian plan could unlock Friday’s follow-up. Both sides eye a deal before year-end to claim diplomatic wins.