Iran and the United States kicked off a new round of indirect nuclear talks in Rome on Saturday, aimed at resolving their longstanding dispute over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The discussions, mediated by Oman, come after a productive first round in Muscat a week ago.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff will negotiate through an Omani intermediary, continuing indirect talks that began under President Barack Obama. These are the first negotiations of their kind since 2015.
Ahead of the talks, Araqchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to diplomacy, stressing that any nuclear deal must respect Iran’s rights and address sanctions imposed on the country. “This is an opportunity to reach a reasonable deal that benefits all parties,” Araqchi said.
While Iranian officials remain cautious, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei signaling a pragmatic approach, Araqchi expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached if Washington remains realistic. “Rome can be a capital of peace and dialogue,” said Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who also urged negotiations to prevent nuclear proliferation.
The United States seeks to halt Iran’s uranium enrichment, aiming to curb Tehran’s nuclear weapons potential. Tehran, on the other hand, maintains its nuclear program is peaceful but has indicated willingness to discuss limits in exchange for sanctions relief.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump reaffirmed his stance against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, while Israeli officials have not ruled out military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Negotiations face significant challenges, with Iran’s red lines including refusal to dismantle uranium-enriching centrifuges or halt enrichment altogether. Tehran also insists on not discussing its ballistic missile program as part of the talks. Russia, a signatory of the 2015 nuclear deal, has offered to mediate if needed.
As both sides continue to hold firm on key issues, the path to a potential deal remains uncertain.