On Saturday, Iran confirmed that it has initiated "indirect talks" with the United States in Oman, focusing on nuclear issues and the potential lifting of what Tehran describes as "unjust and illegal" sanctions. This significant diplomatic event marks the latest effort to address tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program and economic hardships exacerbated by U.S. sanctions.

In a statement on social media, Iran's foreign ministry revealed that the discussions are taking place between Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy to the Middle East under President Donald Trump. Both diplomats are leading their respective delegations in this delicate negotiation process.

The foreign ministry's post elaborated, "Indirect talks between Foreign Minister Dr. Araghchi and the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steven Witkoff began with the mediation of Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi." The format of these talks involves representatives from both nations remaining in separate rooms, with the Omani Foreign Minister acting as an intermediary to relay messages and positions. This arrangement aims to facilitate dialogue while navigating the complex diplomatic landscape.

Despite the commencement of these discussions, news agency AP has reported that an overarching agreement is unlikely to be reached between the two parties at this stage. Witkoff's arrival in Muscat followed a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin the previous day, highlighting the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play.

Prior to the talks, Araghchi addressed Iranian journalists, stating, "If there is sufficient will on both sides, we will decide on a timetable. But it is still too early to talk about that." He emphasized that the negotiations are currently limited to nuclear issues and must be conducted in a manner that respects the national interests of the Iranian people.

Conversely, both President Trump and Witkoff have characterized the discussions as more direct in nature. Trump has warned that Iran could face "grave danger" if the talks do not yield positive outcomes. This rhetoric underscores the high stakes involved in the negotiations, where the potential for U.S. sanctions relief could profoundly impact Iran's struggling economy.

However, considerable uncertainty looms regarding how much Iran would be willing to concede in these discussions. Under the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran was permitted to maintain a limited stockpile of uranium enriched to 3.67 percent. In stark contrast, Iran's current stockpile has reportedly increased, with some uranium enriched to 60 percenta short technical distance from weapons-grade levels. Given the trajectory of past negotiations following the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018, it is anticipated that Iran will demand the right to enrich uranium up to at least 20 percent.