Muscat, Oman – International press reports indicate that indirect talks between Tehran and Washington in Oman have reached a critical juncture. The Islamic Republic has insisted on rejecting US demands to halt uranium enrichment. However, both sides have expressed a cautious willingness to continue the diplomatic process.
Stability in the nuclear stance and absence of the missile file
Reuters and The Wall Street Journal, citing informed sources, reported that the talks held on Friday saw Iran maintain its insistence on its right to enrichment. In this context, alternative proposals exist. A well-informed regional diplomat stated that Tehran refused to halt enrichment entirely but expressed a willingness to discuss the “level and purity” of enrichment or the proposal to establish a regional union. The sources also confirmed that Iran’s missile program was not on the table during the recent Muscat talks. Despite this fundamental disagreement, The Wall Street Journal reported that the parties remain committed to pursuing diplomatic solutions.
The aftermath of the July attacks and the ambiguity of the investigation
This diplomatic escalation follows the US attacks on three Iranian nuclear facilities on July 1st, which have complicated the situation on the ground. Iranian officials maintain that their stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% is secure and undamaged, as it is “buried in fortified underground facilities.” The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), however, has expressed concern, stating that Tehran is preventing its inspectors from accessing the damaged facilities. Consequently, accurate verification of the status of Iran’s nuclear program and its stockpiles is currently “impossible.”
