A senior official in the Trump administration announced on Sunday that an agreement has been reached to move forward with talks with Iran, focusing on the technical aspects of a potential deal. The announcement follows the conclusion of the fourth round of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran, held in Oman.
According to the senior official, US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff held direct and indirect discussions with Iranian representatives in Muscat. "An agreement was reached to advance talks with Iran to continue working on the technical details," the official said.
The talks, described as challenging yet productive, marked another step in the ongoing dialogue between the Trump administration and the Islamic Republic. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson commented, "The discussions were tough but beneficial," signaling cautious optimism about the progress made. He noted that they helped "to better understand the parties' positions and find reasonable and realistic ways to bridge the disagreements." He added that the next round of talks will be coordinated and announced later by Oman, which continues to serve as a mediator between the parties.
Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi traveled to Oman for the negotiations, engaging directly with US representatives. The meetings, facilitated by Omani mediators, aimed to address complex issues surrounding Iran's nuclear program and related international concerns.
Before departing for the Omani capital, Araqchi informed Iranian state TV that "Iran has well-known positions based on clear principles... We hope to reach a decisive stance in Sunday's meeting." He further noted that Iran's technical team was already positioned in Oman and "will be consulted if necessary," Reuters reported.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff articulated Washington's position to Breitbart News on Thursday, establishing a clear boundary: "No enrichment. That means dismantlement, no weaponization," which would necessitate completely dismantling Iran's nuclear installations at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, as detailed by Reuters.
"If they are not productive on Sunday, then they won't continue and we'll have to take a different route," Witkoff stated regarding the negotiations.
Trump, who has previously threatened military action against Iran should diplomatic channels fail, will embark on a regional tour including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates from May 13-16. Responding to Witkoff's statements, Araqchi declared Saturday that Iran would not surrender its nuclear rights, including uranium enrichment capabilities.
The Islamic Republic remains open to discussing certain limitations on its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, Reuters reported citing Iranian officials, but eliminating its enrichment program or relinquishing its stockpile of enriched uranium represents "Iran's red lines that could not be compromised" during negotiations.
