Oman said Thursday that the United States and Iran made “significant progress” in a third round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva, with technical-level talks now expected in Vienna next week. AP reported that the talks ended without a deal but would resume after further consultations in both capitals.
The discussions lasted several hours and stayed focused on Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and the dispute over uranium enrichment. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi described the exchanges as constructive, even as major gaps remained unresolved.
The Geneva round took place under heavier regional pressure, with the United States increasing its military presence in the Middle East and warning that diplomacy has a limited window. That backdrop has raised the stakes for both sides, even as they continue to negotiate indirectly rather than face to face.
The next test is whether the Vienna technical talks can narrow the biggest disputes — especially over enrichment limits, sanctions relief, and the scope of any future agreement. For now, the main change is not a breakthrough, but a clearer sign that both sides are still keeping the diplomatic channel open.
Sources:
Associated Press
Oman mediator statements
