Indirect Iran-US talks in Oman to proceed in separate stages

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News Websites
23 Apr 2025 18:20

Iran and the United States are set to hold indirect negotiations in Oman, starting at the expert level before moving to high-level talks.

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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian makes an address during the army parade commemorating National Army Day Iran, April 18, 2025 (AP)

A well-informed source told Iran's Tasnim News agency that the indirect expert and high-level talks between Iran and the United States in the Sultanate of Oman will not be held simultaneously.

According to the source, the indirect discussions will begin on Saturday between Iranian and US experts, with both sides set to convey the outcomes of these talks to higher-level representatives. Following the technical sessions, high-level negotiations are expected to be held, headed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Whitkoff.

In response to a question regarding the possibility of direct technical talks for more precise discussion of issues, the source stated, "There is no such arrangement whatsoever," adding, "The technical discussions will take place indirectly, attended by Iranian and American experts, and mediated by Omani experts."

Iran condemns US sanctions ahead of 3rd round of nuclear talks

It is worth noting that on Tuesday, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on Iranian liquefied petroleum gas magnate Seyed Asadoollah Emamjomeh and his corporate network.

It claimed in a statement that the network was "collectively responsible for shipping hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of Iranian LPG and crude oil to foreign markets".

"Emamjomeh and his network sought to export thousands of shipments of LPG -- including from the United States -- to evade US sanctions and generate revenue for Iran," said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Iran strongly condemned the sanctions, with foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei describing them as a continuation of Washington's "hostile" policies against the Iranian people.

He stated that targeting Iran’s energy sector and nuclear activities, which he said are conducted for peaceful purposes, reveals the US administration's disregard for international norms.