Indirect negotiations resume in Italy as both sides cautiously explore a path to de-escalate tensions
Amidst simmering regional tensions and renewed threats of military action, Iran and the United States have commenced a fresh round of indirect nuclear talks in Rome. The discussions, facilitated by an Omani intermediary, aim to navigate the long-standing impasse over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
This latest engagement follows a preliminary round of indirect talks held in Muscat the previous week, which both parties characterized as constructive. While direct interaction between Iranian and US officials has been limited since 2015, the resumption of dialogue, even indirectly, signals a potential willingness to explore diplomatic avenues.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, prior to the Rome talks, emphasized Iran’s enduring commitment to diplomacy, urging all involved parties to “seize the opportunity to reach a reasonable and logical nuclear deal.” He underscored the necessity for any agreement to respect Iran’s “legitimate rights” and result in the removal of “unjust sanctions,” while addressing concerns surrounding its nuclear program. Araqchi affirmed in Moscow that an agreement remained achievable, provided Washington adopts a realistic approach.
Echoing the diplomatic sentiment, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani hailed Rome as a potential “capital of peace and dialogue,” expressing his government’s hope for a positive resolution for the Middle East.
Despite the renewed diplomatic activity, both sides have tempered expectations for a swift breakthrough. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expressed a stance of cautious neutrality, while President Trump reiterated his determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, stating his desire for a “great and prosperous and terrific” Iran.
The backdrop of these talks is further complicated by Israel’s consideration of potential military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities. This underscores the urgency of finding a diplomatic solution to avert further escalation in the region.
The current negotiations occur in the context of President Trump’s revived “maximum pressure” campaign, initiated after his withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord. Washington’s primary objective remains halting Iran’s production of highly enriched uranium. Tehran, while consistently asserting the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, has indicated a willingness to discuss certain limitations in exchange for guaranteed sanctions relief. However, Iran has firmly rejected demands to dismantle its centrifuges, halt enrichment entirely, or reduce its enriched uranium stockpile below the 2015 agreement levels. Discussions regarding its ballistic missile program and defense capabilities have also been ruled out by Tehran.
Russia, a signatory to the 2015 nuclear deal, has offered its assistance in mediating the complex negotiations.
The Rome talks represent a critical juncture in the ongoing efforts to address the Iranian nuclear issue. Whether this renewed diplomatic push can bridge the significant gaps and pave the way for a mutually acceptable agreement remains to be seen.
