Third Round of US-Iran Nuclear Talks Opens in Oman

On April 26, 2025, the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran began in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The discussions are being mediated by Oman, Qatar, and the European Union.

Leading the delegations are US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The primary focus areas include uranium enrichment levels, oversight of nuclear facilities, and potential restrictions on Iran’s missile development program.

Iran is demanding firm guarantees regarding the lifting of economic sanctions and the release of frozen assets held abroad. In response, the United States insists on strict verification measures to ensure compliance with any future agreement.

According to diplomatic sources, both sides are exploring the possibility of reaching an interim agreement. Such an arrangement would involve curbing Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for partial sanctions relief.

The negotiations take place amid growing international concern over the expansion of Iran’s nuclear program and the absence of a formal agreement since the United States withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018.

Previously, Iran rejected a US proposal to cease uranium enrichment entirely and rely solely on imported nuclear fuel, asserting its right to a peaceful nuclear program under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

US President Donald Trump expressed hope for a diplomatic solution but emphasized that all options remain on the table, including military action, should the negotiations fail to yield an agreement.