Kerry calls Netanyahu to update him on Iran nuclear talks in Vienna

VIENNA –Negotiations between the six world powers and Iran resumed in Vienna's Palais Coburg Saturday morning in a last ditch attempt to reach a "framework agreement" over the Islamic republic's nuclear program.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif and EU representative met in a trilateral meeting Saturday evening. Prior to the meet, Kerry called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and briefed him on the status of the talks.

American officials told Haaretz that at this point substantial differences remain between the sides, adding that in light of the apparent dead end in the talks, consultations are being held to determine what further steps will be taken. One of these possibilities is further extending the talks.

"We’ve been very candid that real differences remain," a senior American official taking part in the talks told Haaretz, "and we’re not going to discuss an extension prematurely with the Iranians because that takes pressure off them to wrestle with tough issues now, but obviously right now we’re meeting and assessing the best course forward.”

Kerry, who is at this point staying in Vienna, is expected to discuss the state of the negotiations with the foreign ministers of the other five powers, as well as foreign ministers of other nations. Kerry will also hold telephone consultations with senior White House officials and other Washington officials.

Earlier on Saturday, Kerry held a conference call with the foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, and updated them on the talks. He also updated the foreign ministers of Canada and Turkey by phone.

German FM: We've never been closer to a deal

Kerry is expected to meet with German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who arrived in Vienna Saturday afternoon. Upon arriving at the talks, Steinmeier said it is uncertain whether an agreement can be reached. Adding that the talks will continue, he said that the objective remains making sure that Iran never builds a nuclear weapon. Germany's foreign minister added that "in 10 years of talks with Iran we have never been this close" to a nuclear deal.

Steinmeier will also meet with Zarif. In the meantime

http://www.haaretz.com/news/middle-east/1.627867