Negotiations between top Iranian and U.S. officials resumed on Sunday, focused on resolving ongoing disputes regarding Tehran's nuclear program. The talks, reported by Iranian state media, are part of a broader effort to make headway on a nuclear deal, with the backdrop of heightened tensions as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for his Middle East visit. While both Iran and the U.S. express a preference for diplomacy, the two sides remain deeply divided over key issues, with critical "red lines" that negotiators will need to navigate to avoid future conflict.
The negotiations, which are taking place in Muscat, are the fourth round of talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, facilitated by Omani mediators. Despite Washington’s tough rhetoric on Iran’s nuclear activities, Iranian officials have signaled that such a stance would hinder meaningful progress in the talks. Before heading to Muscat, Araqchi made it clear that Iran’s position on nuclear enrichment and other aspects of its program is non-negotiable, adding that Tehran hopes for decisive outcomes from the discussions.
U.S. negotiator Witkoff, in a recent interview, reiterated Washington's firm stance: "No enrichment," meaning the dismantling of Iran’s key nuclear sites such as Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. He stated that if no progress is made on these points, the U.S. will reconsider its approach, potentially resorting to more aggressive measures. This hardline position underscores the challenge both sides face in finding common ground, particularly with President Trump set to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE soon, adding further pressure on the talks.
In response, Araqchi reaffirmed that Iran would not compromise on its right to uranium enrichment, which is central to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. Iranian officials are open to negotiating limits on their nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. However, the idea of dismantling its nuclear facilities or relinquishing its stockpiles of enriched uranium remains firmly off the table for Tehran, which views such demands as unacceptable
A senior Iranian official close to the negotiating team expressed skepticism that U.S. demands for zero enrichment and the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would move the discussions forward. This official noted that the public statements made by U.S. representatives are often inconsistent with what is being discussed behind closed doors, suggesting that a more pragmatic approach may be needed to break the deadlock.
Furthermore, Iran has firmly rejected any discussion of its ballistic missile program in the context of the nuclear talks, a key point of contention. Tehran also seeks solid assurances that President Trump will not abandon any potential nuclear agreement, following his withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear pact during his first term. Since then, Trump has implemented a "maximum pressure" campaign, reinstating sanctions that have severely impacted Iran’s economy. Meanwhile, Iran has breached several terms of the original agreement, notably ramping up uranium enrichment to levels nearing weapons-grade purity, a move that has raised concerns among international observers.
The upcoming negotiations represent a pivotal moment for both sides. With each country holding fast to its own red lines, the path to a renewed nuclear deal remains fraught with obstacles, and the outcome of these talks could have significant implications for regional stability and global security.