Delegations from Iran and the US will meet once more this week after wrapping up “constructive” nuclear talks yesterday that included the primary direct contact between a Trump administration and Iranian official.
The talks, held within the Gulf Arab nation of Oman, got here with the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s fiery rhetoric towards Tehran and heightened fears that conflicts might deepen within the Center East.
Trump has threatened Iran with bombing if it doesn’t conform to a brand new nuclear pact and has given Tehran a two-month deadline to just accept a deal that will result in it shrinking its nuclear footprint or eliminating its program altogether.
To date, all sides is publicly projecting optimism.
Right here’s the place issues stand after yesterday’s talks:
What the US stated: The White Home solid the talks as a step in the precise course, saying “direct communication” between Trump’s Center East envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Overseas Minister Abbas Araghchi, who spoke primarily by way of Omani mediators, was “very constructive and constructive.”
What Iran stated: Araghchi equally described the talks as “constructive,” telling state media, the primary spherical of talks “received very shut” to reaching a framework for negotiations.
“The environment in right this moment’s assembly was such that it ensured continuity and progress,” Araghchi advised state broadcaster IRIB. He described a quick, parting interplay with Witkoff the place the 2 spoke instantly as a pleasing formality.
The 2 sides will meet once more: Iranian and US officers stated they plan to satisfy once more Saturday to renew discussions. That assembly is prone to happen in Europe, a supply aware of the plans advised CNN.
A little bit of perception on the timeline: A supply aware of the assembly advised CNN there’s a perception the Trump administration needs to maneuver quick, and Witkoff needs to make a political determination to green-light a deal with out diving into extremely technical particulars that might gradual issues down.