Fresh hopes emerge for US-Iran nuclear negotiations after first direct contact under Trump administration.
Overview of the Latest Nuclear Talks
Diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran have resumed in Oman, marking a significant development in efforts to reach a new nuclear agreement. These talks, described as “constructive” by Iranian media, could pave the way for future negotiations.
The discussions included the first direct communication between US and Iranian officials under former President Donald Trump’s administration — a major diplomatic shift.
Where and How Did the Talks Take Place?
Location: Muscat, the capital of Oman.
Mediated by: Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi.
Type of talks: Mostly indirect, with Omani officials carrying messages between the two sides.
Participants:
US represented by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Iran represented by senior diplomat Abbas Araghchi.
Although the delegations were placed in separate rooms for most of the meeting, they briefly spoke directly for a few minutes in the presence of the Omani foreign minister.
A Constructive Start with Plans to Continue
According to Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, the talks were held in a “constructive atmosphere based on mutual respect.”
Araghchi stated that the session nearly resulted in a negotiation framework, and both parties aim to reach a deal quickly.
What’s Next?
Next meeting scheduled for: April 19 in Oman.
Delegations hope to continue working towards a “fair and binding” nuclear agreement.
What Are Both Sides Looking For?
Iran is currently seeking an initial understanding that could evolve into a full negotiation process. Meanwhile, the Trump administration had presented Iran with a two-month deadline to accept a deal that would reduce or eliminate its nuclear programme.
President Trump’s Position:
Stated he wants Iran to never possess nuclear weapons.
Emphasised he wants Iran to be a “great and happy country,” but without nuclear arms.
Warned of possible military action if talks fail.
Suggested Israel would lead any potential military strike.
Why Are These Talks So Critical?
Iran’s regional influence has been declining due to:
Israeli attacks on Iranian proxies.
Political losses in countries like Syria.
Internal unrest within Iran’s own borders.
The talks come at a time when tensions are high, and military threats are constant.
Trump has said military action is on the table if no deal is reached — but Iran insists it will not negotiate under pressure.
Iran’s Red Lines
Iran has outlined key non-negotiables, including:
No “threatening language” in discussions.
No “excessive demands” about its nuclear capabilities.
Protection of its defence and ballistic missile programmes.
These terms were reported by semi-official Iranian news agency Tasnim.
What Kind of Deal Does the US Want?
The Trump administration is pushing for a deal that:
Is stronger than the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Possibly requires full dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Includes discussions about Iran’s ballistic missile programme and its support for proxy forces.
However, Iran considers its nuclear programme a key form of leverage and is unlikely to give it up completely.
Inside the Strategy: Trump’s Carrot and Stick Approach
While Trump has used strong rhetoric, his advisers have taken a more diplomatic tone.
Steve Witkoff emphasised diplomacy, stating in a recent interview that the US military is strong, but “this is not a threat.”
US officials see these initial talks as a “table-setting” exercise to assess if further negotiations are even possible.
A State Department spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, highlighted that the goal is simple:
“Ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.”
Could This Lead to a Broader Deal?
While Iran currently insists the talks are only about its nuclear programme, US officials are hopeful they could lead to wider discussions on:
Missiles
Regional security
Iran’s involvement with militia groups in the Middle East
A senior official noted that Iran might want a deal like the JCPOA, but the question remains whether they’re open to going further.
Challenges and Surprises Along the Way
Planning the recent meeting wasn’t easy. There was confusion over whether it would take place due to Iran’s initial insistence on indirect talks versus Trump’s desire for a direct meeting.
The announcement of the talks also reportedly caught Israeli officials off guard. Prime Minister Netanyahu appeared surprised during Trump’s announcement. Israeli sources told CNN the move was “certainly not” in Israel’s favour.
Final Thoughts: A Fragile but Hopeful Start
While the discussions are still in the early stages, the fact that both sides engaged at all is a positive sign.
Iran’s Supreme Leader even sent a letter indicating openness to an agreement that would prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power.
But as tensions continue and threats loom in the background, the world will be watching closely when both nations meet again on April 19.
Sources:
IRNA News Agency
Tasnim News Agency
CNN
Washington Post
US State Department
Official statements from Trump and Iranian diplomats