OMAN, Feb 06 (ABC): High-stakes nuclear talks between Iran and the United States resumed in Oman on Friday, with both sides describing the discussions as a positive first step toward reviving diplomacy and avoiding another conflict in the Middle East.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the negotiations began on a constructive note and would continue after further consultations in both capitals.
“It was a good start to the negotiations. There is an understanding on continuing the talks,” he told Iranian state television. “If this process continues, we can reach a workable framework.”
Officials from Tehran and Washington held indirect talks in Muscat through Omani mediation. After the meeting, both delegations returned home to coordinate the next phase.
Talks focus on nuclear issue only
However, differences remain over the scope of negotiations. Iran insists the dialogue will focus strictly on its nuclear programme.
Araghchi told Iran’s state news agency that talks must proceed without threats or pressure. He added that Tehran would not discuss missiles or regional policies with the United States.
“We only discuss the nuclear issue. No other subject is on the table,” he said.
Iranian officials have repeatedly ruled out any negotiations on their ballistic missile programme. They also demand recognition of Iran’s right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.
US seeks broader agenda
In contrast, Washington wants the talks to cover more than uranium enrichment. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States hopes to address Iran’s missile capabilities, its support for armed groups in the region and domestic human rights concerns.
For the US, uranium enrichment inside Iran remains a red line. American officials argue that such activity could shorten the time needed to develop nuclear weapons capability.
The gap between both sides has created mistrust. Araghchi acknowledged that rebuilding confidence would be one of the biggest challenges.
“The lack of trust is a huge obstacle and must be overcome,” he said.
Military tensions heighten risks
Meanwhile, tensions remain high in the region. The US Navy has increased its presence near Iran, while President Donald Trump has warned that “bad things” could happen if no deal is reached.
Last year, the United States struck Iranian nuclear targets during the final phase of a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. Tehran later said its enrichment activities had stopped.
Nevertheless, the recent military buildup has raised fears of another confrontation.
Regional governments and world powers worry that failed diplomacy could trigger open conflict between Washington and Tehran. Such a clash could disrupt the oil-rich Gulf and affect global energy markets.
Iran shows mixed signals
Ahead of the talks, Iran displayed defiance by announcing the deployment of one of its most advanced long-range ballistic missiles, the Khorramshahr-4, at an underground military site.
At the same time, Iranian officials hinted at flexibility on uranium enrichment. According to reports, Tehran may consider handing over around 400 kilogrammes of highly enriched uranium and even accept zero enrichment under an international consortium arrangement.
However, Iran has set a key condition. It demands the removal of sanctions reimposed after the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018.
Global concerns grow
The US, European allies and Israel accuse Iran of using its nuclear programme as a cover to pursue weapons capability. Tehran denies the allegation and says its programme is strictly peaceful.
Israel remains particularly concerned. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly warned that both Iran’s missile stockpile and nuclear ambitions pose a serious threat.
Diplomats say negotiators in Oman now face a delicate task. They must bridge deep disagreements while preventing further escalation.
For now, both sides appear willing to keep talking. Observers say sustained diplomacy offers the best chance to reduce tensions and avoid another war in the Middle East.