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Iran insists on switching the location of talks with the U.S. from Turkey to Oman, emphasizing a focus solely on nuclear issues. A regional source said Tehran’s demands include narrowing the agenda and changing the venue, calling for discussions only about Iran’s nuclear program. This move comes amidst escalating tensions; the U.S. has strengthened its military presence in the Middle East, including shooting down an Iranian drone approaching the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea, as reported by the U.S. military.
President Trump, who previously warned of potential “bad things” if an agreement isn’t reached, mentioned ongoing negotiations without specifying the venue. A regional diplomat familiar with Iran’s stance explained that Iran seeks to limit the talks to nuclear matters and opposes including missile development and regional proxy activities, which the U.S. prefers to discuss.
Official word from the White House indicates negotiations are still scheduled for later this week, with Iran’s foreign ministry noting that discussions about the venue are still in progress, with countries like Turkey and Oman ready to host. Reports suggest Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, was expected to participate in the talks alongside U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.
While other regional countries such as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and the UAE were initially expected to join, Tehran now only favors direct bilateral negotiations with the U.S., according to a regional source.
Following Iran’s recent crackdown on anti-government protests, the U.S. has increased its military presence, including deploying forces and engaging in confrontations like the downing of an Iranian drone. In another incident, Iranian forces harassed a U.S.-linked tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, approaching aggressively but ultimately allowing the vessel to proceed.
U.S. allies like the UAE have stressed the importance of avoiding further conflict, fearing escalation that could see Iran targeting U.S. bases in the region. Tensions also involve Iran’s nuclear program, with recent U.S. demands for Iran to cease uranium enrichment and limits on missile development, which Iran considers infringements on its sovereignty. Despite these pressures, Iran has expressed willingness to show flexibility on uranium enrichment—potentially even handing over highly enriched uranium—while opposing preconditions.
Iran’s influence has waned recently due to Israeli attacks on its regional proxies and the loss of allies like Assad in Syria. Nonetheless, regional stakeholders continue to push for diplomacy to prevent a broader escalation in the volatile Middle East zone.
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