Iran’s foreign minister travels to Oman for crucial US nuclear talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has traveled to Oman to personally lead negotiations with the United States over Tehran's nuclear program, the Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed Thursday evening. The talks, set for Friday in Muscat, proceed after days of uncertainty over the venue and format, with both sides now confirmed to participate in this critical diplomatic engagement.

Iran's stated objectives and expectations

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei outlined Iran's position, stating the delegation is pursuing the diplomacy "with determination" to reach a "fair, acceptable and respectful understanding." He emphasized Iran's responsibility to use diplomacy to safeguard national interests and regional stability. Baqaei also expressed hope that the U.S. would participate "with responsibility, realism and seriousness," while thanking regional countries for their "constructive role" in facilitating the process.

US delegation and context of tensions

The American side will be represented by high-profile figures: U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior advisor. The negotiations occur amidst a backdrop of severe tension, marked by a significant U.S. military buildup in the Persian Gulf and repeated threats of military action from President Trump. This combination of diplomacy and overt military pressure defines the current U.S. strategy toward Iran.

Regional mediation and core disputes

The path to the Oman talks involved significant regional diplomacy, with several countries offering to mediate. Türkiye played an active role in earlier efforts to arrange a meeting, initially proposed for Istanbul before the venue shifted to Muscat. The fundamental dispute remains unchanged: the U.S. and Israel accuse Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, while Tehran insists its program is entirely peaceful. The success of the talks hinges on whether the two sides can bridge this profound gap in trust and objectives under the shadow of military threats.