Iran-U.S. Indirect Nuclear Talks to Continue with Oman’s Mediation
- International Affairs Iran Middle East North America
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 4 minutes read
The diplomatic landscape in the Middle East has once again shifted as Iran and the United States prepare to continue indirect nuclear talks, with Oman serving as the trusted mediator. The upcoming round of negotiations, expected to take place next weekend, will focus exclusively on Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief, according to Iran’s foreign ministry. This latest development marks a cautious but significant step forward in efforts to revive dialogue between two longstanding adversaries, whose relationship has deteriorated dramatically over the past decade. The new round of diplomacy comes against the backdrop of renewed concerns surrounding Iran’s expanding nuclear capabilities and the re-election of President Donald Trump, whose previous administration withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear deal. On Sunday, April 13, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that negotiations with the United States would continue to be indirect, facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman. Baqaei stated that discussions over the venue were ongoing but reiterated Oman’s continued role as a mediator. “Negotiations will continue to be indirect. Oman will remain the mediator, but we are discussing the location of future negotiations,”
— Esmaeil Baqaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson. His statement reaffirms Iran’s insistence on avoiding direct talks, a reflection of both political sensitivity and strategic caution. While Tehran remains firm in its stance, it has shown willingness to explore a structured format for sustained dialogue.
Tehran has repeatedly emphasized that its primary goal in the current round of talks is to secure relief from crippling economic sanctions. These sanctions have severely impacted Iran’s economy, leading to inflation, currency devaluation, and widespread public discontent.
Iran has made clear that the negotiations will be limited to nuclear and sanctions-related matters only, dismissing any attempts to broaden the scope to include its missile program or regional influence. This focused approach reflects Iran’s strategy of leveraging nuclear diplomacy to gain economic breathing room, especially as domestic economic pressures mount. The Sultanate of Oman continues to play an indispensable role in bridging the gap between Tehran and Washington. Known for its neutral and balanced foreign policy, Oman has a long history of mediating sensitive negotiations, particularly involving Iran. Oman’s discreet facilitation of early secret talks between the U.S. and Iran helped lead to the 2015 nuclear deal. Once again, Muscat is providing a trusted environment for both parties to explore potential compromises without the glare of global media or political posturing. This continuation of Omani mediation demonstrates the country’s unique positioning as a diplomatic conduit in an otherwise fragmented region. The upcoming round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, signals a tentative but meaningful re-engagement between two estranged powers. While the format remains cautious and the issues narrowly defined, the significance lies in the willingness of both sides to return to the table—even if only through intermediaries. With the next meeting scheduled for next weekend, observers worldwide will be watching closely to see whether this renewed dialogue can chart a course toward nuclear restraint and broader regional stability. For now, diplomacy remains the only bridge between confrontation and cooperation.
