Iran and the United States have confirmed plans for upcoming nuclear talks in Oman, despite earlier doubts about their viability. The move comes as President Donald Trump increased pressure on Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The initial report of faltering negotiations had raised fears over renewed US military action against Tehran, following violent protests since the 1979 Islamic revolution. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that talks are now scheduled for Friday in Muscat. He expressed gratitude to Oman for facilitating arrangements on X.
US officials also confirmed the meeting in Oman. However, tensions escalated further when reports suggested Iran might pull out or dispute the proposed venue and agenda including its ballistic missile program. Trump, who has significantly increased military presence in the region, continued to criticize Khamenei, warning him of potential “very bad things” if he proceeds with plans for a new nuclear facility.
Trump also revealed that US aircraft carrier strikes during Israel’s June war against Iran had prompted Tehran to consider establishing another nuclear site. He emphasized that discussions must cover missile programs and other contentious issues like terrorism sponsorship in regional conflicts.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed the need for comprehensive talks, including missile range, terrorist support, and nuclear program scrutiny. However, Iran has historically excluded such discussions on its ballistic missiles as a right under self-defense principles.
Meanwhile, Iran faces growing pressure from ongoing protests against its rule and recent Israeli actions in Lebanon and Syria. Despite these challenges, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States was prepared to engage with Iran but insisted on addressing missile issues for meaningful dialogue.