Oman upbeat on outcome of Iran-US talks in Muscat

Muscat :Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, said Iran-US talks held in Muscat on Friday were 'very serious and useful in identify areas for possible progress. 'Very serious talks mediating between Iran and the US in Muscat today. It was useful to clarify both Iranian and American thinking and identify areas for possible progress. We aim to reconvene in due course, with the results to be considered carefully in Tehran and Washington', Sayyid Badr posted on X.

The Foreign Minister reaffirmed the Sultanate of Oman’s unwavering commitment to advancing the cause of dialogue and bridging the diplomatic chasm between the concerned parties. He underscored Oman’s steadfast readiness to collaborate with all partners in forging consensual political solutions that resonate with shared aspirations and strategic objectives. He extended his profound gratitude for the diligent and constructive efforts of regional countries in bolstering this critical diplomatic endeavour.

The deliberations centred upon establishing the requisite foundations for the resumption of both diplomatic and technical negotiations. The paramount significance of these discussions was underscored, reflecting the parties’ profound commitment to forging a path towards a successful outcome — one that ensures enduring security and stability for the region. Iran said it expected to hold more negotiations with the US, hailing a 'positive atmosphere' during a day of indirect talks in Oman but warning against threats after Washington raised the spectre of new military action. Shortly after the talks wrapped up, the US announced new sanctions against shipping entities and vessels, aimed at curbing Iran's oil exports.

But it was not clear if the move was linked to the outcome of the talks. The talks were the first between the two foes since the United States joined Israel's war with Iran in June with strikes on nuclear sites. 'It was a good start', Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Iran's state television. 'We are in the process of building trust'.

When asked whether and when the talks would continue, Araghchi did not commit himself. There was initially no statement from the United States after the meeting at the time of going to print. Sayyid Badr met separately with Araghchi and with the US delegation led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner. The talks took place against the backdrop of repeated threats by Trump to resort to military action, in part because of the brutal crackdown by Iran's state security forces on demonstrators during recent mass protests. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reports reported that Araghchi said Iran has not discussed regional security or other matters with Washington, adding that nuclear negotiations must take place in a calm, tension-free environment. “The prerequisite for any dialogue is refraining from threats and pressure”, he is reported to have said, noting that Iran expects this principle to be respected for talks to continue. The US military has since expanded its presence in the region, with the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and other ships reaching the Middle East. Oman, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar had been mediating intensively in recent days. Their governments maintain pragmatic relations with Iran and have no interest in a regional war. — ONA/dpa