- Iran open to indirect talks with US via Oman mediation.
- Direct US-Iran negotiations remain off the table.
- Tehran warns neighbors against aiding US military operations.
- Iran accelerates uranium enrichment amid rising tensions.
- Russia urges restraint, but Iran doubts Moscow’s loyalty.
Iran has signaled willingness to resume indirect talks with the United States over its nuclear program. This comes amid growing fears of a possible military confrontation in the Middle East.
A senior Iranian official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Iran prefers mediation through Oman, a trusted regional interlocutor. Tehran, however, rejected direct negotiations under current US pressure.
Iran Open to Indirect Talks
Iranian authorities view indirect negotiations as a path to gauge Washington’s sincerity. The talks would likely involve Omani officials shuttling messages between US and Iranian representatives. This diplomatic channel has been used in past negotiations, especially during heightened tensions.
While Iran is not completely ruling out dialogue, it firmly rejects any engagement under threat. Officials emphasized that talks will only proceed if the US changes its rhetoric and shows commitment to a political solution.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi or his deputy may represent Iran if talks begin in Muscat. According to the official, there is a limited two-month window before external actors—such as Israel—might disrupt diplomacy with preemptive actions.
Warnings to Regional States Hosting US Bases
Iran has delivered stern warnings to neighboring countries—such as Iraq, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Turkey. Any cooperation with a US strike, even allowing use of airspace, will be considered an act of hostility.
The Iranian government stated such acts will carry “severe consequences.” Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered the nation’s armed forces to remain on high alert.
So far, only Kuwait has publicly responded, stating it will not permit aggression against others from its soil. The other countries have not officially commented.
Fears of a Wider Middle East Escalation
Tensions are already fragile in the region. The recent conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as drone strikes in Yemen, have created a combustible environment. These developments coincide with political instability in Syria and ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel.
The Gulf region plays a key role in global oil exports, and any flare-up could destabilize energy markets. Iran’s warnings reflect its strategy to deter broader involvement and signal that war would not remain confined to its borders.
Russia’s Response and Iran’s Strategic Doubts
Iran’s ally, Russia, has condemned the US’s military threats. The Kremlin urged restraint and called for all parties to return to diplomacy. Despite this public support, Iranian officials remain skeptical.
One Iranian source noted that Moscow’s loyalty is conditional, and could shift based on the evolving relationship between US leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Iran continues to engage Russia diplomatically but remains cautious in its expectations, especially if global pressure intensifies.
Iran’s Nuclear Enrichment and Western Concerns
Despite repeated claims that it does not seek nuclear weapons, Iran is rapidly enriching uranium to 60% purity—close to the 90% required for weapons-grade material.
Western nations argue there is no civilian need for such high enrichment. The UN nuclear watchdog has expressed serious concerns. Under international norms, enrichment at this level is unprecedented outside of known nuclear weapons programs.
Iran says its program remains peaceful but asserts its right to advance nuclear research, especially under pressure from international sanctions.
US Policy and Possibility of De-escalation
Former President Donald Trump recently said he favors a diplomatic solution over military action. He reportedly sent a message to Ayatollah Khamenei proposing renewed talks. While no formal reply has been announced, Iran appears cautiously open to mediated discussions.
However, Iran refuses any talks if US threats persist. Moreover, Tehran has declared its missile program as off-limits in any future negotiation—reinforcing its stance on sovereignty.
This creates a fragile but existing space for diplomacy. The next few weeks will be critical to determine whether indirect talks can lead to de-escalation or open confrontation.
A Tense Standoff with a Narrow Diplomatic Window
Iran’s strategic posturing and its openness to indirect talks reflect both caution and calculation. The threat of a regional conflict looms large, but diplomacy through Oman could offer a way forward.
The US and its allies must now decide whether to respond with engagement or escalation. For now, the window for peace remains open—just barely.