The United States and Iran are set to resume discussions in Oman regarding a potential nuclear deal, marking the third round of negotiations in as many weeks. US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are leading the talks, which will include a technical-level meeting involving experts from both sides.
These discussions aim to establish a new agreement that would prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, a claim that Tehran has consistently denied. In exchange, Iran seeks relief from the severe sanctions imposed on it. The previous multilateral nuclear deal, from which the US withdrew in 2018, had provided Iran with sanctions relief in return for limitations on its nuclear program.
Araghchi expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations, stating that if the only demand from the US is for Iran not to possess nuclear weapons, then it is achievable. However, he warned that impractical demands could hinder progress.
The US delegation is being led by Michael Anton, the head of policy planning at the State Department, while Iran’s team includes deputy foreign ministers Kazem Gharibabadi and Majid Takht-Ravanchi. The discussions began around midday Omani time and may extend beyond the scheduled day if necessary due to the technical nature of the talks.
Iran’s defense capabilities and missile program will not be part of the discussions, according to Iranian officials. Tensions remain high, with US President Donald Trump reiterating threats of military action if a deal fails, although he expressed a preference for a diplomatic resolution.
In the backdrop of these negotiations, the US has announced new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil network, which Tehran has labeled as hostile. The ongoing dialogue represents the highest-level engagement between the two nations since the US exited the 2015 nuclear accord.
Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes, but Western nations continue to express concerns regarding its potential military intentions. The outcome of these talks could have significant implications for regional stability and international relations.
