Iran and US to Continue Nuclear Talks Following Promising Initial Discussions

Senior US and Iranian officials are set to continue discussions after talks in Oman, the Iranian foreign minister says, amid a crisis that had raised fears of conflict between the countries.

Abbas Araghchi said the mediated discussions were a good beginning and exclusively nuclear, and the negotiators would now return to their capitals for consultations.

Ahead of the talks, US officials emphasized that conversations must also address Iran's ballistic missile capabilities and its support for regional armed groups, highlighting significant differences in positions. There has been no immediate reaction from US officials on the outcomes of the talks.

The discussions come amid heightened tensions, with a recent US military buildup in the Middle East in response to Iran's violent repression of nationwide protests. Amidst these developments, President Trump has issued stark warnings to Iran, while Iranian leaders have promised forceful retaliation against any attacks.

These talks mark the first time US and Iranian officials have connected since before the Israel-Iran conflict last June. Although negotiations indicate a path toward possible de-escalation, major differences remain, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence.

Oman's Foreign Minister facilitated the initial discussions, describing them as useful in clarifying both parties' perspectives and identifying potential areas for progress. Nonetheless, the atmosphere of mistrust continues to pose challenges that must be navigated in future negotiations.

As the situation unfolds, observers note the potential for negotiations to serve as an off-ramp from military confrontation, with growing international concern about the repercussions of a US strike on Iran's already destabilized regime.