Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the talks were productive but emphasized that uranium enrichment will continue and is a non-negotiable condition.
Iran and the US have concluded the fourth round of negotiations regarding the long-standing dispute over Iran’s nuclear program. The talks, mediated by Oman and held in its capital, Muscat, lasted for three hours. As with the previous three rounds, the negotiations were led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff.
A US official, who wished to remain anonymous, told the AP news agency that the discussions were both direct and indirect. Iran claims that the talks were conducted only indirectly, possibly due to internal political pressure within the Islamic Republic.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the talks as “difficult” but acknowledged that “there is now a better understanding of the situation.”
The goal of the negotiations is to limit Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of the economic sanctions imposed by the US.
In March, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog reported that Iran had accelerated its production of uranium close to weapons-grade levels. Iran is believed to have enough enriched uranium to create nuclear weapons.
The US seeks to prevent Iran from increasing its stockpile, but Araghchi firmly stated that Iran will continue uranium enrichment.
The talks are taking place against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s expected visit to the Middle East this week. The US leader has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran if a deal is not reached.
Araghchi confirmed that another round of talks has been agreed upon, although the date and location are yet to be determined.
