Indirect Negotiations Deemed 'Constructive' as Technical Talks Loom
Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described recent talks with U.S. representatives in Rome as "constructive" and forward-moving, signaling cautious optimism in efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The Omani-mediated discussions, which spanned four hours, focused on sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear program, with both sides agreeing to proceed to technical negotiations starting Wednesday in Oman.
Araghchi emphasized that the two delegations—led by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and himself—achieved a better understanding of core principles, though specific details remain undisclosed. A senior U.S. official confirmed plans for another meeting next Saturday to review outcomes from expert-level talks.
Reviving the JCPOA: A Long Road Ahead
The negotiations follow years of stalled diplomacy after the U.S. withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. While recent talks mark the second round of indirect dialogue since March, challenges persist. Oman’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating "a fair, lasting agreement," highlighting regional stability concerns amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear advancements.
Analysts note that upcoming technical discussions will test whether both parties can bridge gaps on uranium enrichment limits and sanctions reciprocity. The JCPOA’s original signatories—the UK, China, France, Germany, and Russia—continue to monitor developments closely, with global energy markets and Middle East security dynamics hanging in the balance.
