Reuters: Iran, US deliberate on sanction easing for nuclear control agreement

High-level talks between Iran and the United States commenced in Oman on April 12, focusing on resuming negotiations over Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program. The talks are significant, with US President Donald Trump threatening military action if an agreement is not reached.

Iran's delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, while the US side was represented by Steve Witkoff, Trump's Middle East envoy. These discussions mark the first direct engagement between the two nations during Trump's presidency.

"Indirect talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by the Omani foreign minister, have begun," stated Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei on social media platform X.

Each delegation was housed in separate rooms, exchanging messages through Oman’s Foreign Minister, Baghaei explained.

An Omani source revealed in a conversation with Reuters that the discussions would focus on de-escalating regional tensions, prisoner exchanges, and limited agreements aimed at easing sanctions on Iran in exchange for controlling Tehran's nuclear activities. Oman has historically played the role of intermediary, having facilitated the release of several foreign nationals and dual citizens detained by Iran.

Tehran approached the negotiations cautiously, doubtful about the possibility of a fruitful outcome and wary of President Trump's threats, which have included military action if Iran continues its uranium enrichment program, seen by the West as a potential path to nuclear weapons.

Despite both sides expressing hope for progress, significant differences remain on how the talks should proceed. Iran prefers indirect communication, while Trump has insisted on face-to-face negotiations.

Prior to the formal talks, Araqchi met with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi in Muscat to present Tehran's positions, which would later be relayed to the US side, according to Iranian state media.

While any positive development in the talks could help ease tensions in a region already volatile due to conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, the stakes are high. Failure to make headway could exacerbate fears of a broader conflict, particularly in a region crucial to global oil exports. Iran has warned countries with US military bases in the region that they would face severe consequences if involved in any US military actions against Iran.

"There is a chance for initial understanding on further negotiations if the other party [US] enters the talks with an equal stance," Araqchi told Iranian TV. He added that it was too early to speculate on the duration of the talks. "This is the first meeting, and many fundamental issues will be clarified, including whether there is sufficient will on both sides. Then, we will make a decision on a timeline."

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has granted Araqchi full authority to lead the talks, an Iranian official confirmed.

By Tamilla Hasanova