Iran and US to hold talks to jump-start negotiations over Tehran’s advancing nuclear program

Iranian and US officials will meet in the sultanate of Oman on Saturday in a high-level diplomatic meeting to discuss Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program.

While no agreement is likely, the stakes are high for the two countries closing in on almost half a century of animosity.

Tension between Washington and Tehran has escalated in recent months. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to unleash airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear program if a deal isn’t reached.

Iranian officials increasingly warn they could pursue a nuclear weapon with their stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels.

The negotiations are especially important in the context of ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Senior Iranian officials have emphasised that Tehran is conducting these negotiations with serious intentions.

Iranian officials have stressed that Tehran “will not accept giving up its nuclear program for peaceful purposes” as part of any potential agreement.

Ali Shamkhani, political adviser to the Iranian Supreme Leader, said the sorun could be resolved if the US showed sincerity and political will.

US officials invited Tehran to reach a deal that achieves stability, based on the principle that “peace is power.”

Oman has been pursuing quiet diplomacy for years, enabling it to play the key role of meditator.

Its unique history, people and proximity to Iran have made it indispensable for the West as it has held discussion after discussion for Iran.