MUSCAT: Oman announced on Thursday that it will host the sixth round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran this weekend. This move underscores Muscat’s longstanding role as a neutral mediator in regional conflicts, particularly those involving Washington and Tehran. The talks are expected to revive the stalled diplomatic engagement concerning Iran’s nuclear program, which has been a flashpoint for international concern over the past decade.
The discussions come amid heightened tensions between the two nations, following a series of regional escalations and growing suspicions over Iran’s uranium enrichment activities. The United States has expressed alarm over Tehran’s recent advancements in nuclear technology, while Iran continues to demand the lifting of sanctions imposed under previous administrations. The backdrop to these talks includes recent proxy conflicts and missile exchanges across the region, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
Oman has historically maintained strong relationships with both the United States and Iran, offering a rare channel of communication between the two adversaries. Its quiet diplomacy has previously facilitated breakthroughs, most notably during the lead-up to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). By providing a secure and trusted environment for dialogue, Muscat hopes to de-escalate current tensions and lay groundwork for renewed understanding.
Officials familiar with the preparations said the upcoming meetings will focus on technical details, including verification mechanisms, timelines for potential sanctions relief, and limits on nuclear activity. While no major breakthroughs are expected immediately, the very act of reconvening is seen as a positive signal. Oman’s hosting of this session reaffirms its commitment to regional stability and its capacity to serve as a diplomatic bridge in an increasingly fractured geopolitical climate.
