New round of Iran-US talks in Oman: "Military threat, diplomatic deadlock and deep differences"

Diplomatic sources warn that the presence of the CENTCOM commander could jeopardize the Iran-US nuclear talks in Oman, while the Kremlin has called for results and restraint.
Amid one of the most sensitive periods in relations between Iran and the United States, a new round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington has been held in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The talks, designed to find a solution to the crisis over Iran's nuclear program, have been fraught with geopolitical tensions, deep disagreements, and mutual warnings from the outset.
An Islamic Republic diplomatic source stated regarding the presence of the CENTCOM commander: "The presence of the CENTCOM commander or any military official could jeopardize the indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US in Oman." This warning shows that Iran is extremely sensitive to the participation of military officials in these talks and considers it a potential factor for escalating tensions.
On the other hand, reports indicate that a convoy believed to be carrying American officials has left the talks in Muscat, which could be a sign of the increasing sensitivity and unpredictability of the diplomatic atmosphere.
Oman's Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaid held separate consultations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, Steve Whittaker and Jared Kushner on behalf of the United States. The talks focused on creating the right conditions for the resumption of diplomatic and technical negotiations, highlighting Oman as a mediator still trying to de-escalate tensions.
Although both sides have expressed a willingness to talk, fundamental differences remain. Iran wants to limit the talks to nuclear issues, while US officials insist on expanding the agenda to include ballistic missiles, Iran's role in the region, and human rights issues.
The Kremlin also said in a statement that it hoped the talks would lead to a result and reduce tensions, and that it supported restraint on all sides. This stance reflects the efforts of major players to prevent the crisis in the region from escalating.
While the diplomatic outlook remains uncertain, tensions in the Middle East are rising and warnings of a potential for violent conflict have intensified. The United States has beefed up its military presence and said military options are on the table if talks fail.
In addition, reports indicate that Iran has warned against the role of regional countries in supporting the United States and maintains its regional policy. Meanwhile, analyses emphasize that the current negotiations in Oman are more difficult than ever and any failure could make the political and security environment in the region even more tense.
The new round of talks in Oman is taking place while political, security, and strategic differences are still very deep, and the possibility of failure or non-relief of tensions remains serious. Efforts to establish constructive dialogue and mediation by Oman have raised some hopes; but sensitivity to military presence and pressure from Tehran and Washington has further complicated the path of diplomacy.




