Iran and US Hold "Positive" Talks in Oman, Agree to Reconvene

In Oman, Iran and the United States engaged in discussions described as "positive" and "constructive" on Saturday. Both parties have agreed to reconvene next week. The dialogue aims to address Iran's growing nuclear program, a situation complicated by President Donald Trump's threats of military action if a resolution isn't reached.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed optimism, stating that the talks were nearing a basis for negotiations. He indicated that if this foundation could be finalized next week, it would pave the way for substantive discussions. Araqchi characterized the atmosphere of the talks, the first between Iran and the Trump administration, as "productive, calm, and positive."

A White House statement echoed this sentiment, calling the discussions "very positive and constructive." The statement highlighted the complexity of the issues and suggested that the direct communication facilitated by Special Envoy Witkoff represented progress toward a mutually beneficial outcome. Both sides have committed to another meeting next Saturday.

The talks, mediated by Oman, involved indirect communication, as Iran preferred, rather than the face-to-face format initially sought by Trump. Each delegation occupied a separate room, exchanging messages through Oman's foreign minister. Araqchi mentioned a brief encounter with the US delegation, led by Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, after the indirect talks concluded.