Iran and U.S. Delegate Nuclear Deal Framework Talks to Experts After Constructive Discussions

DUBAI — April 19, 2025: In a cautiously optimistic development, Iran and the United States have agreed to entrust the task of drafting a potential nuclear agreement framework to technical experts. The decision follows the second round of indirect talks held within a week, mediated by Oman in Rome, according to Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

The four-hour session involved the U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs, Steve Witkoff, and focused on resolving key differences over nuclear policy. Araghchi described the dialogue as taking place in a “constructive and useful atmosphere,” signaling tentative progress on some foundational principles.

Experts to Begin Drafting in Oman

Araghchi confirmed that expert-level meetings will begin Wednesday in Oman, where negotiators will work on a draft outline for the agreement. These discussions aim to bridge the technical gaps between both parties and ensure that any potential deal reflects their core objectives.

A follow-up session between lead negotiators is scheduled for next Saturday, also in Oman, where they will assess the experts’ progress and evaluate how closely the draft aligns with the shared principles discussed so far.

Iran’s Position: Caution and Conditional Flexibility

Araghchi reiterated the balanced stance of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying, “We are neither overly optimistic nor overly pessimistic. We are moving forward with great caution.” Iran continues to stress that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful, seeking relief from international sanctions in exchange for limited restrictions.

Iran maintains it will not fully dismantle its uranium enrichment program, nor will it reduce its enriched uranium stockpile below the 2015 agreement threshold without meaningful sanctions relief.

Trump’s Warning and the Return to Talks

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal in 2018, recently issued a stark warning to Iran, urging it to finalize a deal or face potential military consequences. Trump stated, “All I want is for Iran not to develop nuclear weapons. They can be great and prosperous, but without weapons.”

This renewed urgency appears to be fueling diplomatic momentum, with both nations now cautiously working toward a framework that could bring them back to the negotiating table in a more formal capacity.