Fourth round of Iran-US negotiations concludes in Oman

MUSCAT — The fourth round of ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about the prospects for progress.

Iran reaffirmed its commitment to continuing uranium enrichment, with Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei describing the latest indirect discussions as “difficult but productive.” He stated that the talks had improved mutual understanding of each party’s positions and confirmed that Oman would soon announce details for the fifth round.

A senior US official highlighted that the fourth round included both direct and indirect dialogue, lasting over three hours. The official expressed optimism about the outcomes despite the complex nature of the discussions.

The talks, mediated by Omani officials in Muscat, moved forward despite the US’s publicly rigid stance, which Iranian officials have argued could hinder progress.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Trump’s Middle East Envoy, Steve Witkoff, participated in the negotiations. Ahead of the talks, Witkoff outlined the US’s “red line” — a complete halt to uranium enrichment, which would require the full dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.

Witkoff warned that failure to reach an agreement during the fourth round could prompt the US to abandon negotiations and pursue “alternative measures.”

The fourth round coincided with Trump’s planned visit to the Middle East and the revival of his maximum pressure campaign against Iran. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has threatened military action against Iran if diplomatic efforts fail.

Despite the challenges, the productive atmosphere of the talks has fueled cautious hope for progress in resolving longstanding tensions between the two nations.