US–Iran talks ‘very good’, more negotiations expected — Trump

US President Donald Trump said talks between Washington and Tehran were “very good” following indirect negotiations held in Oman, with both sides signalling plans for further discussions next week.

The talks, mediated by Oman in Muscat, marked the first dialogue between the two adversaries since the United States joined Israel’s conflict with Iran in June by striking Iranian nuclear sites. While US and Iranian delegations did not meet face-to-face, messages were exchanged through Omani officials.

“We likewise had very good talks on Iran,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One while travelling to Florida. “We’re going to meet again early next week.”

Iran also described the discussions as constructive, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying they took place in a “positive atmosphere” and focused exclusively on Tehran’s nuclear programme. He confirmed that both sides had agreed to continue negotiations and expressed hope that Washington would avoid “threats and pressure” going forward.

Despite the diplomatic tone, Washington announced new sanctions shortly after the talks, targeting shipping entities and vessels linked to Iran’s oil exports. Trump also signed an executive order enabling tariffs on goods from countries doing business with Iran, a move that could affect trade with nations including China, Germany and the UAE.

Trump warned that failure to reach a deal would carry “very steep” consequences, while Iran cautioned against renewed military threats. The US has positioned an aircraft carrier-led naval group in the region, and Iran has vowed retaliation if attacked.

Multiple rounds of talks were held throughout the day, with delegations shuttling between locations hosted by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. Regional and international actors, including Qatar and France, called for restraint and urged progress toward a comprehensive agreement to enhance regional stability.

AFP