Senior officials from Iran and the United States are expected to engage in indirect high-level talks this Saturday in Oman, as both sides navigate a landscape of regional instability and mutual distrust. While the US has described the upcoming discussions as “direct,” Iranian officials have maintained that talks will be held through indirect channels, mediated by Omani authorities.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised the Islamic Republic’s willingness to pursue diplomacy while underscoring that any negotiation must take place under fair conditions and not under pressure. He reiterated Iran’s long-standing position that it does not seek war, asserting that Iran remains prepared to defend itself if necessary. “The Islamic Republic of Iran does not seek war, but, if necessary, it knows well how to defend itself,” he said during a public engagement in Algiers.
The divergence in messaging between the two sides became more pronounced after President Donald Trump stated from the Oval Office that a “very big meeting” was scheduled with Iran and did not rule out military action should diplomacy fail. However, Trump’s remarks have been met with skepticism in Tehran, particularly following his recent threats of bombing and sanctions if no agreement is reached.
President Masoud Pezeshkian also addressed the situation, stating that Iran is open to negotiations but not “at any cost.” He stressed that continued US pressure and threats are incompatible with sincere diplomacy, pointing to the contradictions in Washington’s military buildup in the region and its stated interest in peace.
The upcoming Muscat talks come amid renewed US sanctions on Iran, including measures targeting its nuclear program and oil sector. Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani, a senior Iranian advisor, warned that continued threats could prompt Tehran to reconsider its cooperation with international nuclear watchdogs.
Meanwhile, regional dynamics remain tense, with Iran warning against what it describes as Israel’s attempts to ignite broader conflict in the Middle East. Araghchi also defended the independence of regional resistance movements, dismissing claims that they act as Iranian proxies.
Both sides have remained open to diplomacy despite longstanding hostilities and deep mistrust. The world is closely monitoring Saturday’s meeting in Oman, which could present a unique chance to explore the possibility of a potential thaw in US-Iran relations.
