The third round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, concluded Saturday in Muscat. Iranian Foreign Minister and chief negotiator Abbas Araghchi described the talks as "more serious than before," noting that discussions had moved from general topics to technical details, with economic experts participating for the first time. He said experts from Iran's Atomic Energy Organization are expected to join the next session. According to Araghchi, both sides exchanged written questions and answers multiple times during the latest round, with the Omani mediators facilitating communication. Delegations will now return to their capitals for consultations before resuming talks next Saturday. The venue will be determined by Oman. Araghchi emphasized that negotiations are limited strictly to nuclear issues, dismissing any suggestion of expanding the scope to other matters. He said while serious differences remain, both sides have shown commitment and seriousness, and that Iran remains "hopeful, but extremely cautious." Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said the discussions identified "a shared aspiration to reach agreement based on mutual respect and enduring commitments," with core principles and technical concerns addressed. A high-level meeting is tentatively scheduled for May 3. The third round followed talks last week in Rome. Araghchi led the Iranian delegation, while US Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs Steve Witkoff headed the American side. The first round of discussions took place in Muscat on April 12. US President Donald Trump has reiterated that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon, warning of possible military action if a new agreement does not replace the 2015 nuclear deal. Earlier Saturday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei confirmed that negotiations were focused on sanctions relief and safeguarding Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy. He denied that Iran's ballistic missile program was part of the talks. — Agencies
