US Iran Nuclear Talks Continue After Rome Meeting
The second round of US Iran nuclear talks took place in Rome and lasted several hours. Negotiators from both countries discussed possible steps toward a new nuclear agreement.
According to a U.S. official, the talks involved Abbas Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Their discussions included both direct and indirect negotiations.
Officials described the meeting as productive. Therefore, both sides agreed to hold another round of talks next week.
US Iran Nuclear Talks Focus on Future Agreement
Participants said the US Iran nuclear talks addressed principles and objectives for a possible agreement. Iranian officials indicated that technical discussions will soon begin.
Araghchi said expert-level negotiations will start in the coming days. These talks will focus on detailed aspects of a potential deal.
He also noted that Iran believes the earlier nuclear agreement is no longer sufficient. However, he said lessons from the past agreement remain important.
Negotiators Express Cautious Optimism
Following the meeting, Araghchi said progress had been made during the discussions. However, he emphasized that optimism should remain cautious.
“After that, we will be in a better position to judge,” he said in a statement. Meanwhile, negotiators plan to meet again next Saturday.
Officials confirmed the next round will continue discussions on the framework of a potential agreement. Therefore, diplomatic engagement between both sides remains active.
Talks Occur Amid Growing Nuclear Concerns
The renewed US Iran nuclear talks come as concerns grow over Iran’s nuclear program. The administration of Donald Trump has pushed for a new agreement.
Trump has repeatedly stated that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon. Additionally, he has suggested military action could be considered if diplomacy fails.
However, the administration says diplomacy remains the preferred path. Officials hope negotiations will prevent nuclear escalation.
Oman Plays Key Role in Mediation
The negotiations were facilitated by Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Oman’s foreign minister. Oman has served as a mediator between the United States and Iran.
According to Oman’s foreign ministry, both sides agreed to enter the next phase of discussions. The goal is a fair and lasting agreement.
The proposed deal would ensure Iran remains free of nuclear weapons. Additionally, it would address the lifting of international sanctions.
Next Round of Talks Planned in Muscat
Officials said the next meeting will likely occur in Muscat in the coming days. Muscat is the capital of Oman and a frequent location for diplomatic negotiations.
The Rome talks began around 11:30 a.m. local time at the Omani ambassador’s residence. Diplomatic sources confirmed the discussions continued for several hours.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials said diplomacy remains their preferred approach. They also acknowledged that negotiations may be difficult.
Diplomacy Continues Despite Challenges
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Iran remains committed to diplomacy. He stated the country approaches negotiations with responsibility and awareness.
Baghaei added that previous diplomatic experiences influence the current talks. Therefore, Iranian officials say they are proceeding carefully.
Before the Rome discussions, Witkoff also met with Rafael Grossi. Grossi leads the International Atomic Energy Agency, which monitors nuclear programs worldwide.
Earlier Talks Set Stage for Current Negotiations
The current US Iran nuclear talks follow a first round of negotiations held earlier in Oman. Both sides described those earlier discussions as constructive.
During that meeting, Witkoff and Araghchi also spoke face-to-face near the end of the talks. Officials said those conversations helped set the stage for continued diplomacy.
Negotiators now hope the next phase will clarify the details of a potential agreement. However, significant issues remain unresolved.
