Oman mediates second round of indirect US-Iran nuclear talks in Muscat

Omani diplomacy is at the center of renewed efforts to bridge the gap between the United States and Iran, with Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi facilitating a second round of indirect talks in Muscat on Friday. The negotiations, conducted through Omani mediators, focus on exchanging formal proposals and responses between the two adversarial nations.

Mechanics of the Indirect Negotiations

According to Iranian state media, the process involves separate meetings between the Omani Foreign Minister and each delegation. In the first round, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented Tehran's proposed plan to Albusaidi, who then relayed it to US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The second round was dedicated to conveying the US delegation's response back to the Iranian side. A brief pause occurred as both teams consulted with their respective governments.

Delegations and High-Level Representation

The Iranian delegation is led by Foreign Minister Araghchi and includes senior diplomatic and economic officials. The US side is represented by Special Envoy Witkoff and senior advisor Jared Kushner. The presence of such high-ranking officials underscores the potential significance of the talks, even as they proceed indirectly through Omani channels.

Context of Heightened Tensions and Regional Mediation

These diplomatic efforts are unfolding amidst a substantial US military buildup in the Persian Gulf and repeated threats from President Donald Trump. The tense environment has prompted several countries, including Türkiye, to offer their services as mediators, highlighting the widespread regional and international concern over the risk of escalation between Washington and Tehran.