The United States and Iran held indirect talks in Oman on Saturday, describing the discussions as “positive” and “constructive,” and agreeing to reconvene next week. The talks, mediated by Oman, aim to defuse tensions over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program and mounting regional instability.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said the negotiations took place in a “productive, calm and positive atmosphere,” and that both sides were aiming for a swift agreement.
“We do not want talks for the sake of talks,” Araqchi told Iranian state television. “If we can finalize a framework next week, we’ll be well-positioned to begin serious negotiations.”
The White House echoed that optimism, calling the dialogue “very positive and constructive.” U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One later Saturday, said, “The Iran situation is going pretty good… but nothing matters until it’s done.”
Saturday’s session marked the first Iran-U.S. dialogue under Trump’s second administration. Trump had previously withdrawn from the 2015 nuclear accord and reinstated heavy sanctions on Tehran. He has recently threatened military action if no deal is reached.
Talks were conducted through separate delegations, with Oman’s foreign minister acting as intermediary. A brief face-to-face exchange between Iranian and American envoys occurred at the conclusion of the more than two-hour meeting, Araqchi said.
According to an Omani official, the talks focused on de-escalating regional tensions, prisoner swaps, and partial sanctions relief in exchange for limits on Iran’s nuclear program. The Iranian side denied that account but did not elaborate further.
Iran remains cautious. Tehran has expressed deep skepticism over Trump’s intentions, citing his threats of military force and the collapse of past diplomatic efforts. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly granted Araqchi full authority to negotiate.
Russia’s envoy to Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, called the dialogue “encouraging,” while regional analysts see signs of movement but warn that the sides remain far apart. Iran continues to enrich uranium at levels just short of weapons-grade, insisting its nuclear work is for peaceful purposes—claims rejected by Western powers and Israel.
Failure to reach an agreement could worsen fears of a wider regional war. Since the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent conflict, tensions have escalated across the Middle East, with Iran-linked groups clashing with Israel and Houthi rebels disrupting Red Sea trade.
Despite the stakes, both Tehran and Washington signaled a desire to avoid further confrontation—at least for now. Talks are expected to resume next Saturday.
