ROME — The Italian capital is set to host the next round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States on Friday, May 23, as both sides seek to revive diplomacy amid escalating regional tensions and deepening mistrust. The talks, facilitated by Oman, will take place at the Omani Embassy in Rome, marking the fifth round of discussions since the process resumed in April.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are expected to lead their respective delegations, continuing the indirect format where messages are relayed through Omani mediators. The previous round, held in Rome in April, was described by both sides as “constructive,” with Araghchi noting that Tehran and Washington had reached a “better understanding” on several principles and objectives.
However, significant hurdles remain. The primary sticking point is Iran’s uranium enrichment program. The U.S. insists that Iran must halt all enrichment activities, a demand Tehran views as excessive and non-negotiable. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has criticized U.S. demands as “outrageous,” expressing skepticism about the success of the talks.
Complicating matters further, Israel is reportedly preparing for a potential military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities should the negotiations collapse. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened high-level meetings to discuss the possibility, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict.
Despite these challenges, both Iran and the U.S. have expressed a commitment to continue the dialogue. Iranian officials have emphasized their willingness to negotiate within the framework of their rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, while the U.S. aims to secure a deal that ensures Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons.
The upcoming talks in Rome are seen as a critical juncture in the ongoing efforts to address Iran’s nuclear program and ease tensions in the Middle East.. Observers will be watching closely to see if the two sides can bridge their differences and pave the way for a lasting agreement.
