UK security adviser attended US-Iran talks and judged deal was within reach
UK Security Adviser Attended US-Iran Talks and Believed Agreement Was Near
The Guardian has learned that Jonathan Powell, the UK’s national security adviser, participated in the concluding negotiations between the United States and Iran. His evaluation suggested the Iranian proposal on its nuclear program was substantial enough to avert immediate military action. According to reports, Powell observed measurable advancements in late February and characterized the deal as unexpectedly favorable.
Two days following the Geneva discussions, the US and Israel proceeded with an attack on Iran. Powell’s active role in the talks was verified by multiple sources, who noted his presence at Oman’s ambassadorial residence in Cologny. His involvement underscored the UK’s apprehension about US expertise, particularly highlighting concerns over Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, both linked to Donald Trump’s administration. Kushner had invited Rafael Grossi, the IAEA’s director general, to the negotiations, though he insisted his team had sufficient understanding of the issues.
Nuclear specialists later critiqued Witkoff’s knowledge of the nuclear program, identifying several fundamental mistakes in his analysis. Powell, with his extensive experience as a mediator, brought a UK Cabinet Office expert to the talks. A Western diplomat remarked, “Jonathan believed a deal was achievable, but Iran hadn’t fully committed, especially regarding UN inspections of its nuclear facilities.”
“Witkoff and Kushner didn’t have a dedicated technical team. They relied on Grossi, but that’s not his primary role. So Jonathan Powell brought his own group,” said a former official briefed on the talks.
The British team noted that while the offer wasn’t complete, it represented progress and likely wasn’t Iran’s last proposal. They anticipated the Vienna negotiations would continue, but this never materialized after the US-Israel strike on March 2. Powell’s involvement helped explain the UK’s hesitation to endorse the attack, straining its relationship with the US.
UK officials cited a lack of urgent evidence for an Iranian missile threat against Europe or a nuclear weapon acquisition. This marked the first time the UK’s deep engagement in the talks was publicly acknowledged, offering justification for its stance. The UK viewed the attack as unlawful and premature, as Powell maintained diplomatic pathways remained viable.
Downing Street did not comment on Powell’s attendance or his assessment. Keir Starmer faced criticism from Trump for initially withholding permission to use British military bases for the operation. The UK later allowed their bases for defensive purposes after Iran began targeting Gulf allies. Trump also warned NATO members about potential consequences if they didn’t support opening the Strait of Hormuz.
The Geneva talks were mediated by Oman’s foreign minister, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. While Gulf diplomats did not clarify the basis for Powell’s access, it may stem from his longstanding ties with the US, including his prior role as Tony Blair’s chief of staff.
