Iran and United States open nuclear talks in Oman

10:30

By: Sahili Aya

Iran and United States open nuclear talks in Oman

Iran and the United States began a new round of nuclear-related discussions on Friday morning in Oman, marking a cautious diplomatic step amid heightened regional tensions and persistent uncertainty over the future of Tehran’s nuclear program.

The talks represent the first direct engagement between the two sides since a period of intense confrontation earlier this year, when U.S. strikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities during a brief but violent regional conflict. That escalation followed a surprise outbreak of hostilities that disrupted an earlier diplomatic track between Washington and Tehran.

Iran is represented in the discussions by its foreign minister, while the United States has dispatched a senior envoy tasked with exploring possible pathways toward de-escalation. Omani officials are once again acting as intermediaries, continuing the sultanate’s long-standing role as a discreet diplomatic channel between adversaries.

Despite the resumption of dialogue, tensions remain high. Washington has reiterated that all options remain on the table, while Iranian officials insist the country is prepared to defend itself against any further military action. Analysts say the talks are likely to focus on risk reduction and confidence-building measures rather than an immediate breakthrough.

Observers view the Oman meeting as a tentative attempt to stabilize an increasingly fragile regional environment, even as deep mistrust and unresolved disputes continue to weigh heavily on prospects for a comprehensive agreement.