ALWAGHT- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi characterized the latest indirect nuclear talks with the US in Muscat, Oman, as a "good start" and said the dialogue can continue.
Following the conclusion of indirect, Omani-mediated talks in Muscat, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the negotiations with the United States as a positive "good start" that can be continued. He stated that the final decision on proceeding will be made after consultations in both capitals, though a consensus for further dialogue seems to exist. The six hours of talks, held in a constructive atmosphere after a long interruption, allowed Iran to fully convey its positions and concerns.
The discussions focused exclusively on the nuclear issue, with Iran's team stressing the need for a calm environment free from threats. A primary Iranian demand is the verifiable lifting of economic sanctions, as Tehran asserts any agreement must provide tangible benefits. A key red line for Iran is the recognition of its legal right to enrich uranium on its own soil.
The negotiations aimed to rebuild trust severely damaged eight months prior by military strikes attributed to Israel against Iran. Araghchi emphasized that overcoming this distrust is a necessary first step before a new dialogue framework can be designed to secure Iran's interests. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi played an active role as mediator, shuttling between the two sides.
The delegations were led by Iran's Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, whose team notably included CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper. Both sides, along with Omani officials, characterized the talks as serious and useful, agreeing to reconvene after internal consultations. This round marks a resumption of dialogue after five previous rounds were halted by military action in mid-June.
