Indirect talks between Iran and the United States kick off in the Omani capital of Muscat.
βIndirect talks between Dr [Abbas] Araghchi, Iranβs Foreign Minister, and Steve Witkoff, the US Presidentβs Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs, have begun,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said in a post on his X account on Saturday.
The talks are mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, he added.
The Iranian spokesperson noted that the discussions are underway in the location set by Oman, as the host country, with representatives of Iran and the US stationed in separate halls.
Baghaei said the parties would convey their viewpoints and positions to each other through the Omani foreign minister.
Update:
Baghaei said the parties would convey their viewpoints and positions to each other through the Omani foreign minister.
Iran has rejected US President Donald Trumpβs offer of direct negotiations because of his βmaximum pressureβ policy and threats of military action.
Nevertheless, Tehran has said it will give diplomacy a βgenuine chanceβ and that talks in Oman are an important first step to assess Washingtonβs intent and resolve.
Speaking after a meeting with his Omani counterpart, Araghchi said the Iranian negotiating team is looking forward to reaching an honorable agreement with the US on an equal footing.
βIf the other side holds the same position, God willing, there will be a chance for an initial understanding that will lead to a path of negotiations,β the top Iranian diplomat added.
Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht-Ravanchi also said on Friday that an agreement was likely if Washington stopped its intimidation and threats against Tehran.
βIf the American side does not raise unrelated issues and demands and puts aside threats and intimidation, there is a good possibility of reaching an agreement,β he said.
βThe Islamic Republic of Iran believes in dialogue and interaction based on mutual respect; and any form of bullying and coercion is unacceptable to us.β
"Iran gives diplomacy a chance"
— Press TV π» (@PressTV) April 12, 2025
Press TV's @gisoumisha emphasizes that Iran's return to the negotiating table reflects a commitment to diplomacy. pic.twitter.com/zPKfyghG96
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Iranian Foreign Ministry: Indirect talks between Iran and the United States begin in Muscat#Iran | #USA | #Oman @AlarabyTV pic.twitter.com/rgADr3yUSR