In a significant diplomatic move, American and Iranian delegations held a new round of indirect talks in Rome on Saturday, focusing on reviving discussions over Tehran’s controversial nuclear program. Both sides described the discussions as “constructive,” with further expert-level meetings scheduled to take place in Oman later this week.
The diplomatic sessions, which marked a cautious step toward renewed engagement after years of tension, were facilitated by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. Acting as a mediator, Albusaidi shuttled between the two delegations—who remained in separate rooms at the Omani embassy in Rome—exchanging messages and proposals.
Progress Amid Stalemate: Talks Move Forward
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who led the Tehran delegation, said the meetings resulted in a better mutual understanding and opened the door to continued technical negotiations.
“This time, we managed to reach a better understanding about some principles and goals,” Araghchi said in a post-meeting statement. “Ultimately, it was agreed that the talks continue and we enter the next stage. Starting this Wednesday, technical meetings at the expert level will begin in Oman.”
The Rome session featured four rounds of indirect negotiations, and while no specific breakthrough was announced, both parties reportedly expressed willingness to stay engaged—a notable shift after years of diplomatic stalemate.
Next Steps: Technical Talks in Oman
According to Araghchi, the upcoming expert-level discussions will focus on technical and logistical aspects of any potential future agreement. These will take place in Oman beginning April 24, with a third round of broader negotiations already scheduled for April 26.
The decision to move the next stage of discussions to Muscat, the Omani capital, underscores the Gulf nation’s longstanding role as a trusted intermediary between the United States and Iran.
“Technical talks are essential for any real progress,” Araghchi added. “These meetings are not just ceremonial—they will focus on mechanisms, timelines, and obligations that can pave the way for serious diplomatic steps.”
Historical Context: The Legacy of the 2015 Nuclear Deal
The Rome meeting comes against the backdrop of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a landmark nuclear agreement signed by Iran and six world powers—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany. The JCPOA placed strict limits on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions.
However, in 2018, former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the agreement, calling it “the worst deal ever” and reimposed tough sanctions on Iran. This move escalated tensions in the region and led Tehran to gradually reduce its compliance with the pact’s restrictions.
Trump’s administration had insisted on a new deal that addressed not only Iran’s nuclear program but also its ballistic missile development and regional influence. At one point, Trump threatened military action against Iran, saying he would “bomb it” if Tehran failed to comply with new demands.
Since then, efforts to revive the JCPOA have faced repeated delays and diplomatic hurdles, complicated further by leadership changes in Washington and Tehran, regional conflicts, and deep mistrust between the two sides.
Washington’s Position: A Cautious Approach
While the Biden administration has expressed interest in returning to the 2015 agreement, US officials have made clear that any new deal must include updated provisions and stronger verification measures.
A senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to international media outlets that the Rome meetings allowed both sides to “clarify their expectations and explore viable paths forward.”
“We are not rushing into any agreement,” the official said. “Our goal remains a comprehensive and durable solution that addresses our concerns and restores international confidence in the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.”
International Response and Strategic Significance
The revival of talks has been welcomed by several European and Middle Eastern nations, who have long feared the possibility of a nuclear arms race in the region.
Oman, in particular, has been praised for its diplomatic efforts. As a neutral Gulf state with strong ties to both Iran and the West, Oman played a critical role in the original JCPOA negotiations and is once again stepping in to facilitate dialogue at a critical juncture.
Experts note that renewed engagement between the US and Iran, even if indirect, could reduce regional tensions and open the door for broader cooperation on other security challenges—including the war in Yemen, maritime security in the Persian Gulf, and the conflict in Gaza.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive tone of the Rome talks, several obstacles remain. Iran continues to enrich uranium beyond the limits set in the 2015 agreement, and international inspectors have raised concerns about reduced access to key facilities.
On the domestic front, political factions in both countries are skeptical of a deal. Hardliners in Iran argue that the West cannot be trusted, while critics in the US Congress warn against lifting sanctions without concrete Iranian concessions.
Nevertheless, the fact that both parties are back at the negotiating table marks a notable shift after years of rising hostility.
“We’re still at the beginning,” said a European diplomat familiar with the talks. “But there is cautious optimism. What matters now is turning that optimism into action.”
Looking Ahead
As technical teams prepare to meet in Oman, the world will be watching closely. The outcome of these next sessions could determine not only the future of the Iranian nuclear program but also the stability of the broader Middle East.
For now, the resumption of talks is being seen as a glimmer of hope in a landscape too often dominated by confrontation.
“The fact that we’re talking again is progress in itself,” Araghchi concluded. “But progress must lead to results. That is the challenge ahead.”
