In a development that could significantly shape the future of Middle Eastern diplomacy, Iran and the United States are poised to hold high-level indirect talks in Oman on April 12. The upcoming negotiations mark the most serious effort in recent years to resuscitate nuclear diplomacy between the two long-time adversaries. With diplomatic channels narrowing and military threats escalating, the stakes surrounding these talks are undeniably high.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed on April 8 that he would lead the Iranian delegation during the Oman talks. On the American side, Steve Witkoff, the special envoy appointed by US President Donald Trump, will participate. However, the talks will not be direct; instead, the two sides will communicate through intermediaries, with Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al-Busaidi expected to play a central role as a mediator.

The choice of Oman as the venue is significant. Muscat has historically acted as a neutral facilitator in delicate regional negotiations, including early back-channel talks that led to the original 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). By returning to Oman, both Tehran and Washington appear to be seeking the quiet, non-confrontational diplomacy that once helped produce major breakthroughs.

Despite the diplomatic overture, the rhetoric preceding the talks has been far from conciliatory. President Trump, in an address earlier this week, warned that Saturday’s discussions would be a “very high-level” effort to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He bluntly stated that failure to reach a new agreement could result in a “very bad day” for the Islamic Republic, threatening Iran with........

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