Tehran confirms no discussion beyond nuclear deal in talks with US

The delegations of the United States and Iran did not go beyond discussions on Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions during the first round of indirect talks held in Oman, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said.

"In our correspondence, there was nothing beyond the nuclear program. I think it is clear that the American side engaged on the same basis. <...> Based on instructions received from the country’s leadership, we were mandated to negotiate solely on the nuclear issue and sanctions relief," Baghaei said, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media sources.

The Iranian diplomat noted that the location of the second round of talks is still under discussion. "We are currently considering whether the next round will also take place in Oman or elsewhere, but Oman will continue to play the role of mediator in any case," he added.

The first round of talks aimed at resolving issues surrounding Iran’s nuclear program took place in Oman on April 12. The Iranian delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the U.S. delegation was headed by President Biden’s special envoy, Steven Witkoff.

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the meeting was held in a constructive and calm atmosphere. Both sides agreed to continue consultations, with the second round scheduled for April 19.

By Khagan Isayev