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Iranian and U.S. Officials have begun a series of nuclear talks in Muscat, marking the first face‑to‑face negotiations between the two sides since the Israeli strikes on Iran in June 2025.
Background to the talks
The talks approach after Iran’s president Masoud Pezeshkian instructed his foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, to pursue “fair and equitable negotiations.” In the weeks leading up to the meeting, the United States has deployed a heavy naval presence, including an aircraft‑carrier strike group, and on 3 February it reported shooting down an Iranian Shahed‑139 drone that it said “aggressively” approached the carrier Abraham Lincoln.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that an “armada” of U.S. Warships has entered the Persian Gulf and has hinted that a deal is preferable but that “if we don’t make a deal, we’ll witness what happens.” Iran, meanwhile, has insisted that the Muscat talks focus solely on its nuclear programme and has warned against “excessive demands or acts of adventurism” from the United States.
Key statements
In a pre‑talks meeting with Omani foreign minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, Araghchi said Iran is “ready to defend the country’s sovereignty and national security against any excessive demands or acts of adventurism.” Albusaidi expressed hope that the talks would “pave the way for a sustainable understanding between Iran and the United States.”
Araghchi later posted on X that “Iran enters diplomacy with open eyes and a steady memory of the past year,” adding that “we engage in good faith and stand firm on our rights. Commitments demand to be honored. Equal standing, mutual respect and mutual interest are not rhetoric—they are a must and the pillars of a durable agreement.”
What could happen next?
- Negotiators may reach a provisional agreement on nuclear constraints, which could ease tensions and reduce the risk of a U.S. Strike.
- Conversely, if the United States insists on expanding the agenda, talks could collapse, potentially prompting a renewed show of force from the U.S. Fleet.
- Any breakthrough or breakdown is likely to influence regional actors’ calculations, especially Arab states that have urged Washington not to walk away from the negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last time the United States and Iran held face‑to‑face talks?
The most recent face‑to‑face negotiations took place in June 2025, when Israel launched attacks on Iran that sparked a war.
What issue does Iran want the Muscat talks to focus on?
Iran has stated that it wants the discussions to cover only its nuclear programme.
What warning did Iran’s foreign minister grant about U.S. Demands?
Araghchi warned that Iran is fully ready to defend its sovereignty and national security against any excessive demands or acts of adventurism by the United States.
How do you think these talks will influence the broader regional security environment?
