Iran’s chief diplomat expressed optimism about the country’s nuclear negotiations with the United States, which have been facilitated by Oman. He described the talks as having a “good start” and indicated they would continue, alleviating fears that a lack of agreement could escalate tensions in the Middle East.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that Iran is committed to discussing only its nuclear program in these talks. “Any productive dialogue requires an environment free from threats and pressure. Iran is solely focusing on its nuclear issue and will not engage with the US on any other matters,” Araqchi stated.
These discussions took place on Friday in Muscat, the capital of Oman, and included participation from Araqchi, the US special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump.
The United States has shown interest in broadening the scope of these talks to address Iran’s ballistic missile program, its support for regional armed groups, and its domestic human rights practices, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
A diplomat from the region, who was briefed by Iranian officials, reported that Iran firmly asserted its “right to enrich uranium” during the discussions. The topic of Iran’s missile capabilities was not addressed in these negotiations.
A regional diplomat briefed by Iran on the talks said Iran insisted on its “right to enrich uranium” during the negotiations with the US, and its missile capabilities were not raised in the discussions.
Trump on Friday ratcheted up the pressure on Iran with an executive order imposing a 25 per cent tariff on imports from any country that “directly or indirectly” purchases goods from Iran, following through on a threat he made last month.
The White House has said the measure is intended to deter third countries from maintaining commercial ties with Iran, particularly in energy, metals and petrochemicals, sectors that remain key sources of revenue for the Iranian government.
‘Very serious’ talks, Oman says
Mediator Badr al-Busaidi, Oman’s foreign minister, said the talks had been “very serious” and the goal was to reconvene in due course.
Despite the talks, the United States announced on Friday it was sanctioning 15 entities and 14 shadow-fleet vessels connected to illicit trade in Iranian petroleum, petroleum products and petrochemical products.
Iran’s leadership remains deeply worried that Trump may carry out his threats to strike Iran after a US military buildup in the region.
Last June, the US struck Iranian nuclear targets, joining in the final stages of a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. Iran has since said it has halted uranium enrichment activity.
The naval buildup, which Trump has called a massive “armada,” has followed a bloody government crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran last month, heightening tensions between the US and Iran.
Trump has said “bad things” will probably happen if a deal cannot be reached, increasing pressure on the Islamic Republic in a standoff that has led to mutual threats of airstrikes
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