On Friday, both the United States and Iran indicated they are moving closer to a new agreement concerning Iran’s expanding nuclear program.
The Omani Foreign Minister, Bador bin Hamad al-Busaidi, who is mediating the talks, noted that the fifth round of discussions in Rome resulted in “significant progress.”
He expressed hope on social media that remaining issues could be addressed soon, steering both sides towards “a sustainable and honorable agreement.”
Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy for the Middle East, and Michael Anton from the State Department joined in both direct and indirect conversations during the two-hour meeting.
“The discussions have been constructive,” a U.S. official reported. “We’ve made further progress, but there’s still more to do. Both parties agreed to reconvene soon.” They acknowledged the continued support from Omani partners in facilitating the discussions.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi remarked to local media that al-Busaidi proposed several ideas to bridge gaps, yet noted the complexities involved could not be resolved in “two or three meetings.”
He added that there is hope to reach a solution in the next couple of rounds that would promote further consultations, particularly given a clearer understanding of Iran’s position.
This marks the fifth meeting between U.S. and Iranian officials, with three consultations held in Muscat, Oman, and one previous session in Rome before Friday’s discussion.
Conflicts still persist over nuclear enrichment, as Iran insists it will only agree to new terms if it maintains some domestic enrichment capacities.
Efforts are aimed at curtailing Tehran’s nuclear program, while the U.S. would consider lifting tough sanctions in the region.
Former President Trump had previously warned of military action against Iran should negotiations fail, while Israel, a U.S. ally, has also threatened to target Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Top Iranian officials assert that their uranium stockpiles enable them to pursue nuclear weapon development.
“Iran is almost certainly not producing nuclear weapons, but they have engaged in activities in recent years that position them to produce them should they choose,” a report stated.
The Defense Security Agency indicated that since 2019, Iran has undertaken actions that “exceed” prior limitations set by the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), particularly regarding uranium enrichment at its Fordow facility.
Trump withdrew the U.S. from the JCPOA during his first term in 2018.
