Iran Plans for Indirect Negotiations with U.S. in Oman on Saturday

On March 31, Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei greeted supporters in Tehran.

TEL AVIV, Israel — Iran has announced its intention to engage in indirect negotiations with the United States in Oman this weekend, potentially paving the way for diplomatic discussions on Tehran's nuclear ambitions. However, the indirect nature of these talks could prove to be a stumbling block.

President Trump, speaking on Monday, claimed that direct negotiations with Iran were underway. He mentioned that a significant meeting was slated for Saturday at a near-highest level, though he did not elaborate on the details regarding location or participants.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced, "High-level indirect discussions between Iran and the United States are scheduled for Saturday in Oman."

During Trump's initial presidency, he exited the nuclear agreement crafted by ex-President Obama with several major nations, under which Iran curtailed its nuclear activities in exchange for economic sanction relief. In 2018, Trump reinstated stringent sanctions upon withdrawal, implementing a strategy of 'maximum pressure.'

An annual assessment by the U.S. maintained that Iran is presently not progressing towards the development of a nuclear weapon.

Iranian authorities have consistently turned down opportunities for direct negotiations this year. President Masoud Pezeshkian referenced past U.S. failures to uphold commitments and called for the U.S. to demonstrate reliability before trust can be established. A Khamenei advisor showed a willingness to participate in indirect dialogues.

In a Monday address, Trump acknowledged ongoing negotiations, expressing the potential for an agreement. Nonetheless, he cautioned that failure to reach a deal could result in severe repercussions for Iran.

In a post on X, Iran's foreign minister characterized the impending discussions as both an opportunity and a challenge, suggesting that the outcome depends on the United States.