Iran and U.S. end third round of nuclear talks
Iranian and U.S. negotiators concluded their third round of indirect nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman, with both sides agreeing to continue consultations. The discussions, mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, involved high-level delegations led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff.
Parallel technical-level talks between experts from both countries focused on establishing a framework for a potential agreement regarding Tehran's nuclear program. The U.S. delegation was led by State Department policy planning head Michael Anton, while Iranian Deputy Foreign Ministers Kazem Gharibabadi and Majid Takht-e-Ravanchi represented Tehran.
Following the conclusion of discussions, Albusaidi stated that "core principles, objectives and technical concerns were all addressed" and announced that another "high-level meeting" has been provisionally scheduled for May 3.
Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed satisfaction with the progress, telling reporters: "I am satisfied with the progress of the negotiations and their pace. They are proceeding well and remain satisfactory." He acknowledged that differences remain between the two nations but noted that both sides entered the talks with determination, creating "an atmosphere that gives us hope for progress."
“Let me be clear, we are only discussing issues related to nuclear power. We are not negotiating any other issues. Although when we say ‘nuclear related’ we mean building trust in Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanction removals. Discussions about the nuclear program and sanction go together but it’s only known as the nuclear issue. We only discuss this issue and will not accept negotiating any other issues. And in the past three rounds this has been respected by both sides.”
The previous rounds of indirect talks were held in Muscat and Rome on April 12 and 19, respectively. Both delegations will now return to their capitals for further consultations as part of the ongoing negotiation process.
