Indirect talks between US and Iranian officials in Muscat, Oman have concluded, but both sides say negotiations will continue after returning to their capitals for further consultations. The discussions, mediated by Oman, focused primarily on Iran’s nuclear programme and were described by Iran’s foreign minister as a “good start,” though no breakthrough deal was reached.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the talks ended with an understanding to keep channels open, noting deep mistrust remains and that details of future rounds will be worked out in Tehran and Washington. Oman’s foreign minister said the talks were useful in clarifying both sides’ thinking and identifying areas for potential progress.
The negotiations took place against a backdrop of intense regional tension: the US has deployed significant military assets to the Middle East and President Donald Trump has threatened force if Iran does not reach a deal, while Tehran has vowed to respond forcefully to any attack.
Key disagreements persist. Iran insists the talks focus only on its nuclear programme and rejects linking them to its ballistic missile development or support for regional allies, while the US has sought a broader agenda. Both sides now plan to assess the discussions at home before deciding how to proceed.
S.B.
