Oman says US and Iran make progress in talks

The United States and Iran made progress on Thursday in efforts to resolve their long-standing dispute over Tehran’s nuclear programme, according to Oman, which is mediating the talks. The discussions are aimed at averting further US strikes at a time when Washington is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East.

The parties are expected to resume negotiations after consultations in their respective capitals. Technical discussions are scheduled for next week in Vienna, Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi said following a meeting in Switzerland.

Any agreement between the long-time rivals could come amid repeated warnings from President Donald Trump that he would order military action if no deal were reached. Many fear the standoff could escalate into a broader regional conflict.

Indirect talks in Geneva were led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi and US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Arakchi said agreement had been reached on certain issues, though differences remained on others. He added that Iran was clearly demanding the lifting of sanctions. Washington did not immediately comment on the outcome.

(reuters, est)