Tehran [Iran]: The fourth round of nuclear negotiations between Iran, the United States, and Oman has been postponed due to “logistical and technical reasons,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on Friday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomacy, emphasizing the nation’s determination to secure a just and balanced agreement that guarantees the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions.
“On Iran’s part, there is no change in our determination to secure a negotiated solution. In fact, we are more determined than ever to achieve a just and balanced deal, guaranteeing an end to sanctions, and creating confidence that Iran’s nuclear program will forever remain peaceful,”
Araghchi posted.
Background: Constructive April Talks in Muscat
The decision to postpone the talks comes weeks after US Special Envoy Steven Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a rare and significant round of discussions in Muscat, Oman, on April 13. The talks, facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Said Badr, marked the first high-level engagement between Washington and Tehran in years.
The American delegation included Ambassador to Oman Ana Escrogima, and the discussions were described by both sides as “positive and constructive.” The United States also thanked Oman for its continued role as a diplomatic bridge between the two nations.
According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, the preliminary discussions involved exchanging views on:
- The Iranian nuclear program
- The removal of US sanctions
- Possible mechanisms to restore trust
Diplomatic Opening After Trump Letter
In a significant development, IRNA revealed that the renewed talks were prompted by a personal letter from former US President Donald Trump to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, proposing the opening of negotiations for a new deal between Tehran and Washington.
Iran, in response, said it would give diplomacy a “genuine chance”, contingent on American goodwill and seriousness in addressing Iranian concerns.
What’s Next?
While the postponement signals a temporary delay in formal negotiations, Tehran’s statements indicate that diplomatic channels remain open. Both Iran and the United States appear to be exploring avenues for a potential breakthrough, though mutual mistrust and complex geopolitical dynamics continue to pose challenges.