Why it matters:
The discussions could pave the way for new developments in U.S.-Iran relations, including the potential revival of the nuclear deal (JCPOA). Oman has played a key role as an intermediary in past talks, and these new talks may offer insights into whether the U.S. and Iran can find common ground on critical issues.
The big picture:
Despite the commencement of indirect negotiations, the Iranian side harbors no trust in the American side due to the history of previous talks. Oman is a neutral venue where both nations have managed to find common ground for dialogue despite existing tensions. As indirect talks progress, key issues such as the future of the nuclear agreement, sanctions relief, and broader regional dynamics remain central to these discussions.
What he’s saying:
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, earlier emphasized that these talks will focus on evaluating the U.S.'s intentions and sincerity in its offers.
"The continuation of these talks is conditional on assessing the seriousness of the U.S. in its proposals," he said.
Key points:
- Araghchi is leading a high-level Iranian delegation to Oman, including senior diplomats and nuclear experts, including Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, and Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, Majid Takht Ravanchi.
- The talks will be mediated by Omani officials, with both sides engaging in dialogue without direct face-to-face meetings.
- Oman has previously hosted indirect talks that led to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, a key diplomatic milestone.
- The U.S. is represented by its special envoy for West Asia, Steve Vitkoff, who is meeting with the Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi, to discuss the negotiation framework.
- Iran is seeking to gauge the U.S.'s commitment to meaningful negotiations before deciding on the next steps in these talks.
Go deeper:
Iran FM Heads to Oman for Talks with U.S. Envoy
Hossein Vaez
