Tehran: Iran said recent indirect nuclear talks with the United States were mainly aimed at testing how serious Washington is about diplomacy, while keeping the door open for further negotiations amid ongoing regional tensions.
Iranian officials said the discussions, held through mediators in Oman, helped both sides understand each other’s positions better. Tehran described the talks as cautious but useful, adding that there was enough clarity to justify continuing diplomatic contacts.
According to Iran’s foreign ministry, the talks were not meant to produce immediate agreements but to assess whether the United States was prepared to move beyond statements and take practical steps. Iran stressed that future progress would depend on trust building measures, especially on the issue of sanctions.
Iran has repeatedly said it is willing to take steps related to its nuclear programme only if all economic sanctions are lifted. Senior Iranian officials recently indicated that Tehran could consider diluting its enriched uranium stockpile, but only as part of a broader deal that includes full sanctions relief.
Diplomatic activity around the talks has continued, with senior Iranian figures visiting Oman and other Gulf countries for consultations. Oman remains a key intermediary, as both Tehran and Washington avoid direct talks.
Despite the diplomatic engagement, tensions in the region remain high. The United States has issued new guidance to commercial vessels operating near Iranian waters, reflecting ongoing security concerns in the Gulf.
Iran also warned against what it described as external pressure on the talks, saying the process should not be influenced by the positions of third parties. Officials said negotiations would only move forward if they are based on mutual respect and clear commitments.
For now, both sides appear to be keeping diplomacy alive, even as deep disagreements over sanctions, nuclear enrichment and regional security continue to limit the pace of progress.