Trump Calls US–Iran Oman Talks Very Positive

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON: (Web Desk) – US President Donald Trump said on Friday that Washington had held “very good talks” with Iran following indirect negotiations between the two longtime adversaries in Oman, as Tehran described the atmosphere as positive and expressed hope for further dialogue.

The talks, mediated by Oman and held in the capital Muscat, marked the first engagement between the two sides since the United States joined Israel’s war with Iran in June, including strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Despite the negotiations, the delegations did not meet face-to-face and instead communicated through Omani intermediaries.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while traveling to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, President Trump said, “We likewise had very good talks on Iran,” adding that the two sides were expected to meet again early next week. However, he also warned of serious consequences if no agreement is reached, saying, “If they don’t make a deal, the consequences are very steep.”

Karoline Leavitt reveals Trump’s Super Bowl halftime preference.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who led Tehran’s delegation, said the discussions focused exclusively on Iran’s nuclear programme. Western nations believe the programme is aimed at developing nuclear weapons, a claim Iran has consistently denied, insisting its activities are for peaceful purposes.

“In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged and the views of the other side were shared with us,” Araghchi told Iranian state television. He added that both sides had agreed to continue negotiations and expressed hope that Washington would avoid “threats and pressure” to allow talks to move forward.

The US delegation was led by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and included President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. Washington is also reported to have raised concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile programme, its support for militant groups and its handling of recent protests.

Shortly after the talks concluded, the United States announced new sanctions targeting shipping entities and vessels linked to Iran’s oil exports. While it remains unclear whether the move was directly connected to the Muscat talks, the State Department said the measures were part of the administration’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran.

Karoline Leavitt reveals Trump’s Super Bowl halftime preference.

Regional and international reactions were mixed. Qatar’s foreign ministry welcomed the talks, expressing hope they would lead to a comprehensive agreement that enhances regional security and stability. France, meanwhile, urged Iran to stop acting as a “destabilizing power,” citing its nuclear activities and support for armed groups.

Tensions remain high in the region, with the United States deploying a naval group led by an aircraft carrier in Middle Eastern waters. Iran has repeatedly warned it would retaliate against US bases if attacked.

Despite the diplomatic opening, deep divisions persist, and the outcome of the renewed negotiations remains uncertain as both sides balance dialogue with pressure and military posturing.