Iran and the United States are preparing to resume indirect negotiations in Muscat on April 26, as both sides pursue a possible deal on Tehran’s nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions. The upcoming round will mark the third in a series of discreet diplomatic engagements, following recent meetings in Oman and Italy over the past two weeks.
An informed source confirmed to Tasnim News that the upcoming talks will involve both technical experts and senior negotiators, though not simultaneously. The session will begin with indirect technical discussions between Iranian and American experts, mediated by Omani officials. The outcomes of these talks will then be conveyed to high-level representatives from both delegations.
The senior negotiations will be led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. President Joe Biden’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. The two top diplomats are expected to evaluate progress made in the expert-level discussions and explore paths to a broader agreement.
Originally slated for April 23, the expert-level talks were postponed following a proposal by Oman, allowing the meeting to align with the arrival of both lead negotiators. The Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed the rescheduling, emphasizing the strategic timing of the discussions.
In a related development, Araqchi held a phone conversation on Tuesday with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Araqchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to diplomacy and transparency in the nuclear talks. Grossi praised Iran’s “responsible approach” and affirmed the IAEA’s readiness to support the negotiation process in accordance with its mandate.
While the possibility of direct talks was raised, the source clarified that all communications between Iran and the U.S. will remain indirect and mediated by Oman for the foreseeable future. The focus of the technical talks will be on the feasibility of reaching a comprehensive agreement addressing nuclear commitments and sanction relief.
