UK security adviser attended US-Iran talks and judged deal was within reach
UK Security Adviser’s Role in US-Iran Talks and the Subsequent Attack
The UK’s national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, participated in the concluding discussions between the US and Iran, asserting that Tehran’s proposal on its nuclear program held enough promise to avert an imminent military conflict, The Guardian revealed. According to sources, Powell found the developments in Geneva during late February encouraging, describing the Iranian offer as “surprising.”
Two days following the talks, the US and Israel launched an assault on Iran. Powell’s involvement in the negotiations, along with his detailed insights into their progress, was confirmed by multiple sources. One individual noted that he was present at Oman’s ambassadorial residence in Geneva, serving as a strategic advisor. This highlighted concerns about the US team’s technical expertise, particularly regarding Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, who were linked to Donald Trump’s administration.
US Team’s Technical Support and UK’s Independent Approach
Kushner and Witkoff had invited Rafael Grossi, the IAEA’s director general, to Geneva for technical input. However, Kushner later claimed the pair had “a thorough grasp of the critical matters involved.” Despite this, nuclear specialists pointed out that Witkoff’s statements contained fundamental inaccuracies. Powell, with his experience as a mediator, brought a UK Cabinet Office expert to the talks, underscoring the country’s commitment to diplomatic pathways.
“Jonathan thought there was a deal to be done, but Iran were not quite there yet, especially on the issue of UN inspections of its nuclear sites,” said a Western diplomat.
A former official briefed on the Geneva talks explained that the US delegation lacked a technical team, relying solely on Grossi. “Grossi was not their technical expert, so Powell brought his own team,” the official remarked. The UK team noted that Iran’s proposal was not a full agreement but showed progress, suggesting the next round of talks in Vienna might proceed.
However, the Vienna meeting never occurred. The US and Israel initiated their attack two days before the scheduled date. Powell’s attendance in Geneva, as well as earlier meetings in Switzerland, contributed to the UK’s hesitation in endorsing the strike, straining its ties with the US. The UK lacked conclusive proof of an imminent Iranian missile threat to Europe or the country’s nuclear ambitions.
Officials emphasized that Iran’s readiness for a permanent deal, unlike the 2015 agreement, was a key factor in their assessment. The proposed agreement would not include sunset clauses, which would eventually lift restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program. This marked the first public indication of the UK’s deep engagement in the talks, influencing its decision to oppose the military action as premature.
Downing Street has yet to comment on Powell’s participation in the Geneva discussions or his evaluation of the talks. Meanwhile, Keir Starmer faced criticism from Trump for not fully supporting the US attack, including initially denying access to British military bases. The UK eventually permitted their use for defense after Iran began targeting Gulf allies. Trump also warned that NATO’s European members risked complications if they did not assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a request that was declined.
The Geneva talks were mediated by Oman’s foreign minister, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. Gulf diplomats did not clarify the basis for Powell’s inclusion in the discussions, though it may reflect his long-standing rapport with the US, including his role as Tony Blair’s chief of staff.