US and Iran Agree to Nuclear Talks in Oman
The United States and Iran will meet for nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman, this Friday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the meeting will start at 10:00 local time (06:00 GMT). US officials have also verified the schedule.
The negotiations had been uncertain due to disagreements over the location and scope. Arab and Muslim leaders urged the Trump administration not to cancel the talks, helping bring both sides back to the table.
Trump’s Warning to Iran
President Donald Trump warned Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to take the talks seriously. The US has increased its military presence in the region and threatened action if Iran does not comply with nuclear demands or stop violent crackdowns on protesters.
Scope of the Talks
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that discussions cannot focus only on Iran’s nuclear program. Talks must also address ballistic missile development, support for regional militias, and human rights issues.
Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and denies seeking nuclear weapons. Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed willingness to discuss a deal that ends enriched uranium production in exchange for sanctions relief.
Regional Tensions and Previous Conflicts
Last June, US and Israeli forces struck Iranian nuclear sites after intelligence suggested Iran could develop nuclear weapons. Trump stated that these strikes destroyed much of Iran’s enrichment capacity. He warned Iran against starting new nuclear facilities.
Protests and Human Rights Concerns
Anti-government protests erupted in Iran over currency collapse and rising living costs. Security forces violently suppressed the demonstrations. US-based HRANA reported over 6,400 protesters killed, while Iran acknowledged 3,117 deaths, mostly security personnel and bystanders.
Khamenei labeled the protests as US and Israeli-led sedition. Trump expressed support for Iranian protesters, highlighting human rights concerns during discussions.
