Iran agreed to hold fourth round nuclear talks with the United States this Sunday in Oman, the country’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced on Friday. He emphasized that the negotiations are making progress despite the challenges involved.
The talks come amid rising tensions following the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. The agreement originally aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear activities, but since the US pullout, Iran has accelerated its program. The US has issued strong warnings, including threats of military action if a new agreement is not reached.
US envoy to join nuclear talks in Oman
Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, is expected to attend the talks. He recently indicated that the United States is willing to believe Iran’s claim that it does not seek nuclear weapons. However, he stressed that Iran must dismantle its enrichment facilities and convert its nuclear program to purely civilian use.
“If that’s how they feel, then their enrichment facilities have to be dismantled,” Witkoff said. “They cannot have centrifuges. They have to downblend all of their fuel and send it to a faraway place.”
Details and delays in negotiations
The fourth round of indirect talks was initially planned for May 3 in Rome but was postponed due to logistical reasons. Oman, serving as the mediator, confirmed the new date and venue as Sunday in Muscat.
Araqchi also mentioned his upcoming visits to Qatar and Saudi Arabia. These trips are part of continuous consultations with neighboring countries to address their concerns and shared interests regarding Iran’s nuclear program. He believes these discussions are essential in moving the talks forward.
“The negotiations are moving forward,” Araqchi said. “The delegations need more time to review and examine the issues raised. What matters is that we are on a forward-moving path and gradually entering into the details.”
Balancing regional concerns and nuclear ambitions
Western countries remain skeptical of Iran’s claims, suspecting that its nuclear program aims to produce weapons. Iran, on the other hand, insists its activities are strictly for civilian purposes.
The upcoming talks in Oman will be a critical step in bridging these differences. Both sides seem committed to continuing dialogue despite the complex history and current pressures.
As the fourth round approaches, all eyes are on Muscat, hoping that the meeting will help ease tensions and pave the way for a workable agreement.