Sat Apr 26 10:58:20 UTC 2025: ## US and Iran Resume Nuclear Talks in Oman Amid Cautious Optimism
**Muscat, Oman** – A third round of indirect talks between the United States and Iran aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear program began in Muscat, Oman, on Saturday. The discussions, which are expected to focus on uranium enrichment, follow two previous rounds in Rome and are being held amid cautious optimism from US President Donald Trump.
While neither side offered specifics, Iranian state television confirmed the negotiations were underway. The talks aim to curb Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran has indicated a strong desire for sanctions relief due to the crippling effect on its economy.
President Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, expressed confidence in reaching a deal, stating, “The Iran situation is coming out very well…I think we are going to have a deal.” He stressed his preference for a diplomatic solution but reiterated that military options remain on the table if negotiations fail.
However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei clarified that Iran’s missile and defense programs are not under discussion.
The negotiations come a week after both sides described the second round of talks as “constructive.” Tensions have been high since President Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear deal, leading Iran to abandon limits on its nuclear program and enrich uranium to 60% purity – a level nearing weapons-grade.
While the US, along with other Western countries, accuses Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that any deal would require Iran to cease uranium enrichment entirely. However, Iran has firmly stated that ending its enrichment program or surrendering its enriched uranium stockpile are non-negotiable. The outcome of these critical talks remains uncertain, but the cautious optimism suggests a possible path towards de-escalation.
First Piper 