US, Iran set for second round of nuclear talks in Rome

The United States and Iran are poised to hold a second round of nuclear negotiations in Rome this Saturday, according to two sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Axios.

The upcoming meeting follows what officials described as a productive first round of talks in Oman, which marked a shift from indirect negotiations to direct engagement. U.S. officials, particularly from the Trump administration, were reportedly pleased with the outcome in Oman and are aiming to continue the direct format in Rome — a venue change proposed by Washington.

Behind the scenes, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a private 45-minute discussion last Saturday, which one source characterized as “substantive, serious, and excellent.” This conversation represented the highest-level direct dialogue between the two countries in eight years.

Despite the promising tone, the talks began with mutual skepticism. Iranian officials raised concerns about President Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement, questioning the reliability of any future commitments. Meanwhile, U.S. negotiators expressed doubts over Iran’s intentions regarding its nuclear program.

Nevertheless, after several hours of discussions, both sides reportedly saw a path forward. However, Iranian officials have downplayed expectations that the second round will mirror the direct format used in Oman.

Steve Witkoff has since briefed President Trump on the developments, according to a source. The U.S. is now seeking concrete steps from Iran to further distance its nuclear program from possible weaponization. One proposed measure includes “downblending” Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium — material that could be sufficient to produce up to six nuclear bombs.

Tehran, however, continues to emphasize its primary objective: the lifting of U.S. sanctions.

While the next round of talks will not take place in Oman, Omani mediators are expected to attend. Negotiations may also be held with American and Iranian officials in the same room for the first time.

In the lead-up to the Rome meeting, Witkoff has consulted with Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and briefed officials from several Gulf states, who have expressed cautious support for the dialogue.

On the Iranian side, Araghchi held discussions with counterparts from Qatar, Kuwait, and Egypt to provide updates on the negotiations.

Separately, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, is scheduled to visit Tehran this week. His trip will focus on the IAEA’s monitoring and verification activities within Iran's nuclear facilities, ahead of the upcoming talks.

By Khagan Isayev