Indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran resumed Friday in Muscat, Oman, signaling a cautious step toward addressing the stalled 2015 nuclear deal. The talks – the first in eight months – come amid heightened regional instability, including recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden [[1]]. While both sides expressed initial willingness to continue discussions, the U.S. together announced new sanctions targeting Iranian energy exports, underscoring the complex dynamics at play.
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Menteri Luar Negeri Iran Abbas Araghchi. Foto/Global Look Press/Iranian Foreign Ministry
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi welcomed the resumption of discussions with the U.S. after “eight months of turbulence,” describing the eight-hour meeting in Muscat, mediated by Oman’s foreign minister, as “a good beginning.” According to a statement released by the top Iranian diplomat, both sides reached a “consensus” on the need to continue talks.
However, shortly after the conclusion of the negotiations, the U.S. Department of State announced sanctions against 15 entities, two individuals, and 14 vessels, alleging their involvement in what it termed “illicit trade of Iranian oil, petroleum products, and petrochemicals.”
The U.S. stated that these measures are part of the “maximum pressure” campaign initially implemented under the administration of President Donald Trump.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Araghchi “emphasized” that any dialogue must be free from threats or pressure. He also stated on X, formerly known as Twitter, that Iran “enters diplomacy with open eyes and a firm memory of last year.”
