Iran and the United States held high-level talks in Oman on Saturday, aiming to revive a nuclear agreement amidst escalating tensions and threats of military action from US President Donald Trump.
Both sides expressed a desire for a swift, mutually acceptable deal, despite the complexities involved.
The talks, led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US special envoy Steve Witkoff, marked the most significant nuclear discussions since the US withdrew from the 2015 agreement.
Araghchi reported that both parties are keen to avoid prolonged, unproductive negotiations, with further talks scheduled for next Saturday. The White House described the discussions as “positive and constructive.”
Trump, while acknowledging the talks, emphasised that a concrete agreement is crucial. Oman facilitated the meeting, held in a “friendly atmosphere,” with some direct, albeit brief, communication between the negotiators.
Iran, facing economic pressure from US sanctions and regional conflicts, seeks sanctions relief.
The US, aligned with Israel, aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Witkoff indicated a willingness for compromise but stressed that weaponisation of nuclear capability is a “red line.”
The talks follow Trump’s threats of military action should negotiations fail.
Iran, which denies pursuing nuclear weapons, has increased its nuclear activities since the US withdrawal from the previous agreement.
The International Atomic Energy Agency reports Iran’s uranium enrichment is nearing weapons-grade levels.
Analysts suggest the Iranian government views the negotiations as crucial for its survival, seeking economic relief and stability amidst internal and external pressures.
