Iran and USA set for crucial nuclear talks in Oman
On 19th April, another round of talks between Iran and the USA regarding the nuclear programme will take place in Muscat. This is a continuation of the negotiations that began on 12th April.
What do you need to know?
- Another round of talks: On 19th April in the capital of Oman, Muscat, the second round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States concerning the Iranian nuclear programme will take place.
- Meeting format: The negotiations are conducted indirectly, with delegations staying in separate rooms and communication facilitated by the foreign minister of Oman.
- Political context: Iran is accused by Israel and some Western countries of seeking to develop nuclear weapons, which Tehran denies, insisting the programme is civilian in nature.
How are the talks in Oman proceeding?
The first round of negotiations between Iran and the USA took place on 12th April in Muscat. The meeting lasted over two and a half hours and was conducted in a friendly atmosphere. Oman's foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi, assured that the talks were constructive. Iran was represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and the USA by the president's special envoy, Steven Witkoff.
The meeting, which lasted over two and a half hours, was held in an indirect format - each delegation was in a separate room, and messages between them were conveyed by Oman's foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi. He assured that the negotiations took place in a "friendly atmosphere" and were "constructive".
Why are the talks so important?
The United States has repeatedly threatened Iran with attacks if it does not cease uranium enrichment. The White House is prepared to increase economic pressure on Tehran by imposing restrictions on Iranian oil exports.
Iran asserts that its nuclear programme is solely for civilian purposes and that possessing nuclear weapons contradicts the principles of Islam.
