On April 26, Iran and the United States held their third round of indirect talks in Muscat, the capital of Oman, concluding after approximately six hours. Although significant differences remain on several issues, the Iranian side expressed that the negotiation atmosphere was serious and pragmatic, with the overall process cautiously optimistic.
According to the Iranian state television, Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi noted in an interview after the meeting that the talks were more in-depth than before and have gradually shifted to more specific technical discussions, especially with the involvement of experts, which has improved the negotiation outcomes. He emphasized that differences exist on both macro and detail levels, with some being "very severe," some "relatively mild," and others needing further study due to their complexity.
Araghchi stated that although there is still a distance between the parties, the serious and pragmatic atmosphere of the talks brought hope for potential future progress. The Iranian side is generally satisfied with the progress of the negotiations but maintains a cautiously optimistic attitude, emphasizing that a general consensus must be reached before entering into detailed discussions.
The core content of this round of talks still revolves around the Iranian nuclear issue, aiming to build trust regarding Iran's nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions on Iran. Araghchi reiterated that the talks would not involve any topics other than the nuclear issue and mentioned that both sides have strictly adhered to this basic principle throughout the previous three rounds of talks.
Notably, this round of talks introduced economic experts to participate, providing new support for technical discussions. Araghchi disclosed that as negotiations deepen, more nuclear technology experts will join in the future to handle specific issues more professionally.
Regarding subsequent arrangements, Araghchi stated that the next round of talks is tentatively scheduled for May 3, with the specific location to be determined and formally notified by the Omani government. On the same day, Oman's Foreign Minister Badr also posted on social media that this round of talks confirmed both parties' shared willingness to reach an agreement based on "mutual respect and lasting commitment," and foresaw plans for the next high-level talks.
Reflecting on the previous processes, since 2018 when U.S. President Trump unilaterally withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, U.S.-Iran relations have been tense. On April 12 this year, both parties held their first round of indirect talks in Muscat, followed by a second round of engagement in Rome, Italy, on the 19th. This third round of talks marks new progress in resuming nuclear agreement negotiations, but whether the differences can be bridged to reach a final agreement remains to be seen.
