Muscat, May 2, 2025 — Oman has announced the postponement of the upcoming indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, originally scheduled for May 3 in Rome. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi cited “logistical reasons” for the delay, stating that a new date will be determined once both parties agree.
This would have marked the fourth round of talks aimed at reviving a nuclear agreement to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. Previous sessions were held in Muscat and at the Omani embassy in Rome.
Iranian officials have indicated that the rescheduling depends on the U.S. approach to the negotiations. A senior Iranian official noted that the delay is partly due to U.S. sanctions imposed during the negotiation process, which Tehran believes undermine diplomatic progress.
The talks are taking place against a backdrop of heightened tensions. U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened to impose secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Iranian oil, intensifying his “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran. This move primarily targets China, Iran’s largest oil customer.
Additionally, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Iran would “pay” for its support of Yemen’s Houthi rebels, following their attacks on Red Sea shipping. Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned Hegseth’s comments, blaming the U.S. for escalating tensions.
Despite these challenges, both Iran and the U.S. have expressed a willingness to continue negotiations. Iran’s Foreign Ministry insists it remains committed to serious, outcome-driven discussions, while the U.S. has indicated openness to future talks.
Oman has played a crucial mediating role in facilitating these indirect talks, leveraging its longstanding diplomatic relations with both nations. The Sultanate’s neutral stance and experience in regional diplomacy have been instrumental in bringing the parties to the negotiating table.
As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, hoping that diplomatic efforts will prevail over escalating tensions.
