May 7 — In a surprising diplomatic development, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reportedly approached Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, requesting to initiate direct negotiations with the United States on the nuclear issue. The move follows Tehran’s growing dissatisfaction with ongoing mediation efforts led by Oman.
According to senior diplomatic sources cited by Israeli media, Iran is no longer confident in Oman’s ability to broker effective talks and is now open to direct engagement with Washington. If direct negotiations do not materialize, Iran is said to be considering Norway as a potential new mediator.
Meanwhile, a fourth round of indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran is scheduled to take place later this week, likely in Muscat, Oman’s capital. Iranian state media reported that discussions may resume as early as Sunday. The talks were initially planned for last Saturday in Rome but were postponed due to “logistical reasons,” according to Omani officials.
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is currently in Washington, where he is expected to meet with Witkoff and discuss the ongoing diplomatic process. Witkoff, who is spearheading the Trump administration’s outreach to Iran, confirmed that efforts are underway to ensure the next round of discussions takes place this weekend.
The recent push for direct dialogue reflects increasing pressure within Tehran’s leadership to secure a breakthrough amid mounting economic challenges and international scrutiny. Russian President Vladimir Putin also weighed in on the matter, holding a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The Kremlin stated that Moscow is prepared to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the U.S. to reach a “fair agreement.”
President Trump commented on the situation during a late-night press conference, saying: “We want Iran to be a successful country. We don’t want to do anything to stand in the way of that. But they cannot have nuclear weapons.” He warned that if Iran chooses a different path, “it would be a very sad day.”
“This is a crucial moment for Iran,” Trump added. “It may be the most important time in the history of Iran. We want to see a strong peace agreement. They cannot have nuclear weapons, but we want Iran to prosper.”
As diplomacy gains momentum, all eyes remain on Muscat, where this weekend’s discussions could determine whether the decades-long U.S.–Iran nuclear standoff edges closer to resolution or renewed confrontation.
