Muscat, Oman – Following the commencement of significant indirect talks in Oman, Iran has stated that the United States is eager to finalize a nuclear deal “as soon as possible,” while cautioning that reaching an agreement will be far from easy. This marks the first high-level engagement between the two nations on the nuclear issue since the previous agreement was terminated.
The discussions, held in Muscat, the capital of Oman, saw delegations led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff engage in what both sides described as “constructive” dialogue. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi played a mediating role in the talks, which took place in separate halls, with views being exchanged through the Omani delegation. However, it was reported that the chief negotiators also had a brief direct conversation at the conclusion of the initial session.
According to Iranian state media, Araghchi conveyed that the American side expressed a desire for a swift and positive agreement, acknowledging that achieving this would necessitate “willingness on both sides.” He further noted that the initial meeting brought them “very close to a basis for negotiation,” emphasizing that neither party desires “fruitless negotiations, discussions for discussion’s sake, time-wasting or talks that drag on forever.”
A statement from the White House echoed the positive sentiment, describing the discussions as “very positive and constructive.” It highlighted that Special Envoy Witkoff’s direct communication with the Iranian delegation represented “a step forward in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome.”
These talks occur against a backdrop of escalating tensions in the region and a pressing timeline. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of potential military intervention if a nuclear deal is not reached with Iran within the next two months. Simultaneously, Iran is seeking relief from stringent sanctions that have crippled its economy.
While the US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, a goal shared publicly by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran insists its nuclear program is solely for peaceful, civilian purposes. However, reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) indicate that Iran has significantly increased its uranium enrichment levels, moving closer to weapons-grade material.
Despite the complexities and mutual distrust, both nations have agreed to continue discussions next week, with the next round of talks scheduled for Saturday, April 19. This commitment to further dialogue suggests a mutual interest in finding a diplomatic resolution to the long-standing nuclear issue.
Key Points:
- High-stakes indirect talks between the US and Iran on the nuclear issue commenced in Oman.
- Iran reports US wants a deal “as soon as possible” but anticipates difficulties.
- Both sides described the initial discussions as “constructive.”
- Further talks are scheduled for next week, indicating a commitment to the diplomatic process.
- The talks occur under a backdrop of US warnings of military action if a deal isn’t reached quickly.
- Iran seeks sanctions relief while the US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
The international community will be closely watching the progress of these talks, hoping for a breakthrough that can de-escalate tensions and ensure regional stability.
