High-stakes indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States commenced in Oman on Saturday, marking the first dialogue between Tehran and a Trump administration since 2017. The talks, mediated by Omani officials, aim to address Iran’s advancing nuclear program and regional security concerns amid escalating geopolitical friction.
According to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi is relaying positions between the two sides, with Iranian delegation head Abbas Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff leading discussions. While Baghaei emphasized the “fundamental positions” being exchanged, an Omani source cited potential agreements on sanctions relief, nuclear program limits, and prisoner swaps.
The talks occur against a backdrop of heightened tensions, with former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterating threats of military action if no deal emerges. Oman, a longstanding neutral mediator, released a summary of its efforts since 2013, highlighting its role in facilitating “quiet diplomacy.”
Iran has downplayed expectations, with Baghaei stating it’s “too early” to assess outcomes. Analysts remain cautious, noting the complexity of balancing nuclear restrictions with regional de-escalation demands. The U.S. has yet to comment publicly, leaving global observers awaiting further clarity.
