Fourth Round of Iran-U.S. Talks Kicks Off in Muscat: Key Developments and Insights
Iran and the United States have initiated their fourth round of indirect negotiations in Muscat, Oman, focusing on the pivotal nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions on Tehran. These discussions are crucial for both nations as they navigate complex diplomatic waters.
Leading the talks are Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi from Iran and U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steven Witkoff. The role of mediator is being played by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, who has been instrumental in facilitating these important discussions.
Prior to the negotiations, Araqchi expressed his gratitude towards Al Busaidi and the Omani government for their hospitality. He reiterated Iran’s unwavering stance on the negotiations, emphasizing the following key points:
- Uranium Enrichment: Araqchi stated that uranium enrichment is a national achievement, earned through significant sacrifices including those of nuclear scientists, and is therefore non-negotiable.
- Constructive Talks: He expressed hope that this round of discussions would be productive, insisting that negotiation matters should be handled at the table rather than through media channels.
According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, the negotiations commenced immediately upon the Iranian delegation’s arrival at the venue. He noted that, similar to previous rounds, the top Omani diplomat is actively shuttling messages between the two parties.
Iran’s delegation is comprised of experts from various fields, as Araqchi mentioned that the technical team in Muscat is available for consultation if necessary. These negotiations are a continuation of earlier discussions that began on April 12, marking the highest-level engagement between Tehran and Washington since the latter’s withdrawal from a significant agreement in 2018.
This round of talks represents a critical opportunity for both nations to address longstanding issues and explore potential pathways to a more stable diplomatic relationship.
