On May 11, 2025, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that the country’s right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes is non-negotiable, as indirect nuclear talks with the United States concluded in Muscat, Oman. The three-hour session, mediated by Oman, was described by Iranian officials as “difficult but useful” in understanding each other’s positions and seeking realistic solutions to their differences.

Araghchi emphasized that uranium enrichment is a national achievement for Iran, achieved at great cost, including the lives of nuclear scientists. He stated that while Iran is committed to providing verifiable assurances that it will not develop nuclear weapons, the enrichment process itself is a sovereign right and cannot be subjected to any deal.

The United States, represented by envoy Steve Witkoff, has maintained a firm stance, demanding the complete dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program, including key facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. This position has been met with skepticism by Tehran, which views such demands as contradictory to the spirit of negotiation.

The talks, originally scheduled for early May, were delayed due to logistical reasons and recent incidents in Iran, including a deadly explosion in the port city of Bandar Abbas. Despite these challenges, both sides have agreed to continue discussions, with the next round to be coordinated and announced by Oman.

This round of negotiations comes amid heightened regional tensions and economic pressures on Iran, as well as international concerns over its nuclear activities. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact the future of Iran’s nuclear program and its relations with the global community.

Source: Al Jazeera