Recent talks between Iran and Western nations, including the United States, have advanced the effort to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for an easing of economic sanctions.

The next meeting is scheduled for March 17 in Vienna. Negotiators need to agree on the level of uranium enrichment Iran would be permitted, and the nature of oversight at Iran’s nuclear facilities by inspectors of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Problems remain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to visit Washington this month to meet with President Obama. Mr. Netanyahu is skeptical about any agreement.

Still, the Iran talks seem to be showing some movement toward progress in the Middle East — a problem that has stymied the United States for 35 years.

First Published March 2, 2014, 5:00 a.m.