US President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism on Saturday regarding ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran, describing them as “going OK” during remarks aboard Air Force One. The comment came after indirect talks between the two nations concluded in Muscat, Oman, with a commitment to resume discussions next week.
Mediated by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi, the negotiations were held behind closed doors, with US and Iranian delegations stationed in separate rooms. The US team was led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi headed the opposing side. Both parties characterized the atmosphere as constructive and respectful.
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The revival of dialogue marks a significant moment, nearly seven years after the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Iran has since ramped up its uranium enrichment, while the US has reimposed economic sanctions. Despite Tehran’s refusal to engage directly with American diplomats, shuttle diplomacy appears to be producing tentative progress.
While the talks are centered exclusively on nuclear issues, tensions remain high. Iran has threatened to exit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) if further sanctions are imposed. Still, international actors including the EU, Russia, and China are urging diplomatic solutions as markets react positively to news of continued dialogue.
