Positive Atmosphere in Muscat: First Round of Iranian-American Negotiations Concludes

The first round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington in the Omani capital, Muscat, concluded today, Friday, after discussing the nuclear file, amidst talk of a "positive atmosphere." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said after the talks ended that the current round "was positive," adding: "I can say it's a good start."

The Iranian minister explained that his country's delegation listened to the American point of view, indicating the possibility of reaching a positive framework, and noted that the negotiators would return to their capitals for the necessary consultations. Araghchi confirmed that the date of the next round would be determined during upcoming consultations with his Omani counterpart, considering that if negotiations continue in this manner, it might be possible to reach an agreed-upon framework.

For its part, the Iranian news agency reported that assessments indicate a desire from both sides to continue talks, while press sources quoted Axios as saying that the negotiations in Muscat concluded with another round to be held in the coming days. These diplomatic moves come with the participation of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, with assurances that any agreement must be based on mutual respect.

These talks came at a time when Washington keeps the military option on the table, while Tehran affirms it will defend itself against any "excessive demands." Iran stresses the necessity of limiting talks to the nuclear file to lift international sanctions, while the United States insists that discussions also address the ballistic missile program and Iranian support for armed groups in the region.

This round is the first since the United States launched strikes in June 2025 on key sites of the Iranian nuclear program during the 12-day war initiated by Israel against Iran. The talks took place amidst Washington's strengthening of its military capabilities in the Middle East by deploying a naval fleet led by an aircraft carrier, while US President Donald Trump did not rule out the use of force if the diplomatic path failed.

In a related context, press sources quoted the "Wall Street Journal" as reporting that the commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), Admiral Brad Cooper, joined his country's delegation in these talks, reflecting the security and military importance Washington attaches to this round of negotiations in Muscat.

The current round was positive, and I can say it's a good start and we can reach a positive framework.