In a significant diplomatic development amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi described the indirect talks held with the United States in Oman as having taken place in a "very positive atmosphere." These remarks offer a glimmer of hope for de-escalation, despite the ongoing military buildup in the Gulf.
Details of the talks and red lines
In remarks to Iranian state television, Araqchi confirmed that the two delegations exchanged arguments and viewpoints constructively, leading to a preliminary agreement to continue the negotiation process. However, the Iranian minister clarified that the timing and mechanisms for future rounds of talks would be determined later, after consultations with leaders in both capitals. According to the Iranian news agency IRNA, Araqchi emphasized a crucial point representing the cornerstone of the Iranian position: limiting the talks to the "nuclear issue" only, categorically rejecting discussion of any other matters, a clear reference to American demands concerning Tehran's missile program and regional influence.
The Omani role and the context of mediation
These talks cannot be separated from the historic role played by the Sultanate of Oman as a trusted mediator between Tehran and the West. Muscat, which hosted this round of negotiations on Friday, has always been the back channel that paved the way for the 2015 nuclear agreement. This round is particularly significant as it comes at a time when international parties are seeking to prevent the region from sliding into open confrontation, with Omani diplomacy attempting to bridge the gap between the two sides despite the considerable difference in their demands.
Diplomacy under the pressure of battleships
These diplomatic efforts are taking place in stark contrast to the realities on the ground and the political landscape. The talks coincide with the United States deploying a naval strike force to the Gulf region, a clear message of deterrence. They also come at a time when US President Donald Trump continues his "maximum pressure" campaign, threatening military intervention and exploiting the recent internal protests in Iran to pressure the political regime in Tehran.
The future of the negotiation process
Observers believe that describing the talks as positive is a first step, but the road ahead remains long and complex. While Tehran hopes that Washington will refrain from using threatening language to allow the negotiations to continue, the US administration insists on addressing all security concerns, including ballistic missiles, which Iran categorically rejects. This makes the upcoming rounds a true test of both sides' intentions to reach a peaceful solution.
