This decision followed shortly after the completion of indirect negotiations on the nuclear program between Iran and the United States in Oman. An official statement from the State Department emphasizes that the U.S. will continue to impose measures against Iran and its allies until Tehran stops evading sanctions and begins to use the proceeds from oil trade to finance terrorist activities and repressive regimes.
As a result of the last meeting, it was decided to hold the next round of negotiations after consultations with the governments of both countries. Sources report that the delegations assess the outcomes of the meetings as positive, although official comments from Washington are still absent.
The negotiations in Muscat were led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Hanke. The discussions were mediated by Oman, with representatives of the two countries not meeting face to face.
The meetings took place at the residence of Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who acted as a mediator, relaying information between the delegations. Albusaidi noted that the negotiations were "very serious" and aimed at restoring diplomatic and technical dialogue, rather than immediately concluding an agreement on the nuclear program.
Araghchi emphasized that the discussions were exclusively about the nuclear issue and should take place in a calm environment, without pressure. For its part, the U.S. insists on including issues related to Iran's support for armed groups and its ballistic missile program in the agenda.
Previously, the IAEA reported that Iran was the only country enriching uranium to 60% purity without possessing nuclear weapons. Tehran refuses to allow agency inspectors into facilities damaged during the conflict with Israel in June, raising serious concerns among experts on nuclear non-proliferation.
