John Kerry: 'Genuine progress' made in Iran talks, but still no deal

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry conceded on Saturday that while "genuine progress" has been made between six world powers and Iran over Tehran's nuclear program, "fundamental decisions" must still be made, The Wall Street Journal reports.

"We have not yet reached the finish line, but make no mistake we have the opportunity to try to get this right," Kerry said. "It's a matter of political will and tough decision-making."

Kerry's comments echo those he has made over the past few weeks as negotiations continue between Iran and the six-power group; Tehran reportedly wants an immediate lifting of sanctions in exchange for curbing its nuclear program, while several countries within the six powers favor a more gradual drawback.

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Negotiators from the two sides began a recess on Friday; talks are expected to resume on Thursday of the coming week, ahead of the March 31 preliminary deadline that has been set for a deal.