Iran and Oman hold preparatory meeting ahead of US nuclear talks in Geneva

According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, the meeting aimed to complete coordination before the official start of indirect negotiations at the Omani Embassy in Geneva. The discussions follow the first round held in Muscat on February 6, which resumed nuclear diplomacy nearly eight months after talks were suspended following an Israeli attack that sparked a 12-day conflict with Iran.

Positive assessments despite tensions

Both sides offered positive evaluations following the initial Muscat talks, which took place against a backdrop of heightened tensions due to US military buildup in Persian Gulf waters. The resumption of dialogue represents a significant diplomatic development amid ongoing regional volatility. Omani mediation has proven crucial in facilitating communication between Tehran and Washington, which have not maintained direct diplomatic relations for decades.

Core disagreements remain unresolved

Uranium enrichment continues as the primary point of contention. Tehran demands the lifting of Western economic sanctions in exchange for restricting its nuclear activities, while Washington insists Iran fully halt enrichment and transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium abroad. The United States has also sought to expand negotiations to address Iran's ballistic missile program and regional influence, though Tehran maintains it will only discuss its nuclear program.

Regional implications and Türkiye's interest

The nuclear talks carry significant implications for regional stability, affecting Gulf states, broader Middle East security dynamics, and key players including Türkiye. As a neighboring country with growing economic and diplomatic ties to Tehran while maintaining strong NATO partnership with Washington, Ankara closely monitors these negotiations. Any agreement could reshape regional balances, potentially affecting energy security, trade routes, and conflict dynamics across the Middle East where Türkiye maintains active diplomatic and economic interests.