Feb 7, 2026: A fresh round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded in Oman on Friday, with both sides acknowledging the seriousness of the discussions but stopping short of any agreement on the future of Iran’s nuclear program.
Senior officials from the two countries met through Omani mediation in Muscat in an effort to ease mounting tensions that have raised fears of a wider regional conflict. While the talks marked a rare diplomatic engagement, fundamental disagreements remain unresolved.
Cautious Optimism, Deep Distrust
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the discussions as a “positive starting point,” while also warning that long-standing mistrust continues to undermine progress. He emphasized that confidence-building measures would be essential before any concrete outcome could be achieved.
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi facilitated the dialogue, relaying messages between the delegations and attempting to narrow differences on technical and political issues related to Iran’s nuclear activities.
Core Disagreements Remain
Several key issues prevented consensus during the talks:
Uranium Enrichment: Iran reportedly dismissed U.S. demands to fully halt uranium enrichment, maintaining that its nuclear program remains a sovereign right.
Negotiation Agenda: Washington pushed to broaden the talks to include Iran’s missile capabilities and regional influence, a proposal Tehran firmly rejected, insisting discussions be limited strictly to nuclear matters.
Security Signals: The inclusion of a senior U.S. military official in the American delegation underscored Washington’s warning that diplomatic efforts are being pursued alongside continued military preparedness.
Tensions Escalated by Recent Conflict
The Muscat talks followed a turbulent year marked by escalating hostilities. In mid-2025, the United States carried out strikes on several Iranian nuclear-related sites following a brief but intense conflict between Israel and Iran, significantly worsening regional instability.
Iran is also grappling with internal unrest. Nationwide protests earlier this year were met with a severe security response, drawing widespread international criticism and increasing diplomatic pressure on Tehran.
Human Rights Concerns Add Pressure
Rights groups report heavy casualties linked to the recent protests, with thousands killed and tens of thousands detained. International organizations have condemned the crackdown, further complicating Iran’s diplomatic position as it seeks relief from economic sanctions.
Positions of Key Stakeholders
Iran continues to demand comprehensive sanctions relief as a prerequisite for any agreement, while the United States insists that a future deal must address broader security concerns beyond nuclear limits. Oman has positioned itself as a neutral intermediary, aiming to keep diplomatic channels open despite rising regional tensions.
US President Donald Trump has reiterated that failure to reach an agreement could lead to swift and forceful action, reinforcing the high stakes surrounding the negotiations.
Uncertain Road Ahead
Although no timeline has been announced for the next round of talks, both delegations agreed to consult their respective governments before deciding on further engagement. Omani officials expressed hope that discussions would resume once clearer positions emerge.
Observers note that for Iran’s leadership, diplomacy may offer a crucial path to avoid further military escalation, while for Washington, the talks test whether sustained pressure can produce a durable agreement without resorting to conflict.
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