Iran-US technical talks delayed until Saturday

Tehran

Iran’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that a planned technical meeting with US experts, originally scheduled for Wednesday in Oman, has been moved to Saturday. The decision came after discussions between both sides and a suggestion by the Omani government.

The postponed session is part of ongoing indirect talks between Iran and the United States focused on Iran’s nuclear program and lifting of US sanctions. The latest round of talks was held in Rome on April 19, following an earlier session in Muscat on April 12. The next round will also take place in Muscat.

Iran's Foreign Ministry stated that technical experts from both nations would discuss possible terms for an agreement during this meeting. The results will be reviewed in the third session on Saturday.

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned that certain interest groups were trying to sabotage the negotiations. He claimed these groups were pressuring the US government and falsely saying the new deal would mirror the 2015 nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Araghchi said Iran now seeks a stronger deal that better protects its national interests. He also held a phone call with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, updating him on the talks. Grossi praised Iran’s approach and confirmed the IAEA’s support for peaceful diplomacy.

Efforts to revive the JCPOA have continued since the US exited the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump.