Iran, US set for third round of indirect nuclear talks amid rising tensions

KARACHI: Iran and the United States are preparing for a crucial third round of indirect negotiations as diplomatic efforts intensify against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions and a reported U.S. military buildup in West Asia.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi held a telephone conversation late Sunday with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi to review the latest developments in the ongoing talks. According to a statement issued by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, both sides exchanged views on the outcomes of the first and second rounds of negotiations held in Muscat on Feb. 6 and Geneva on Feb. 17.
Oman has once again emerged as a key intermediary, facilitating communication between Tehran and Washington at a time when direct diplomatic channels remain limited. Muscat has historically played a quiet but influential role in bridging divides between regional and international actors, particularly during periods of heightened confrontation.
In a televised interview earlier on Sunday with CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Araghchi indicated that he may meet U.S. President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva on Thursday. The potential meeting is expected to focus on a draft proposal for a possible nuclear agreement prepared by Tehran.
The anticipated third round of negotiations comes at a sensitive moment. Tensions between Iran and the United States have been exacerbated by reports of increased American military deployments in the region. While Washington maintains that its presence is aimed at deterrence and safeguarding regional stability, Tehran views such moves with suspicion, interpreting them as pressure tactics during a delicate diplomatic phase.
The revival of nuclear diplomacy has become increasingly urgent following the collapse of the 2015 nuclear agreement framework and the subsequent reimposition of sanctions. Since then, relations between the two countries have been marked by cycles of escalation, economic pressure and political rhetoric. Efforts to restore a mutually acceptable framework have repeatedly stalled over issues related to sanctions relief, verification mechanisms and guarantees against future withdrawal from any new agreement.
Iran has consistently demanded credible assurances that any renewed deal would not be abandoned by a future U.S. administration. Washington, for its part, insists on stringent oversight measures to ensure that Iran’s nuclear activities remain within peaceful limits. These core disagreements have complicated previous rounds of talks, though diplomatic channels have remained open through intermediaries.
Regional observers note that the current negotiations carry implications far beyond bilateral ties. The outcome will influence broader security dynamics in West Asia, global energy markets and international nonproliferation efforts. A breakthrough could help ease economic pressures and reduce the risk of military confrontation, while failure may deepen instability and heighten uncertainty across the region.
Oman’s continued engagement underscores the importance of regional diplomacy in defusing global flashpoints. Analysts suggest that Muscat’s balanced approach and established trust with both Tehran and Washington provide a rare platform for sustained dialogue.
Despite cautious optimism surrounding the upcoming discussions, challenges remain formidable. Domestic political pressures in both capitals, competing regional interests and lingering mistrust could hinder progress. Hardline voices on either side have expressed skepticism regarding the prospects of compromise.
Still, diplomatic sources emphasize that maintaining dialogue is critical to preventing further escalation. The scheduled discussions in Geneva are expected to test whether both parties are prepared to move beyond entrenched positions and pursue incremental confidence-building steps.
As the world watches closely, the coming days may determine whether diplomacy can regain momentum or whether renewed tensions will overshadow fragile progress. With regional stability hanging in the balance, the stakes for both Tehran and Washington could hardly be higher.