Oman Confident in US-Iran Nuclear Deal Amid Renewed Talks
Muscat’s Diplomatic Push Aims to Reduce Regional Tensions and Restore Stability
Riyadh, At the opening session of the US-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit in Riyadh, Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations, Al Sayyid Asaad Tariq Taimur Al Said, voiced optimism about a potential nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran. His remarks come at a time when the region is grappling with rising tensions, sanctions, and uncertainty surrounding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Oman, a quiet but influential player in Middle Eastern diplomacy, has historically served as a trusted mediator between the U.S. and Iran. Unlike many of its Gulf neighbors, Oman maintains strong relations with both Washington and Tehran, making it a rare neutral ground for diplomatic engagement. This unique positioning has enabled Oman to act as a backchannel facilitator during moments of intense geopolitical strain.
Oman’s Role in Past Diplomatic Breakthroughs
Oman’s involvement in U.S.-Iran diplomacy is not new. In fact, Muscat was instrumental in arranging the secret discussions that eventually led to the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2015. That landmark agreement, negotiated between Iran and the P5+1 nations (the U.S., U.K., France, China, Russia, and Germany), placed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
Even after the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018 under former President Donald Trump, Oman continued its efforts behind the scenes to encourage dialogue and reduce conflict. As tensions flared across the region, Muscat advocated for measured diplomacy over confrontation.
New Sanctions, Old Challenges
This latest wave of cautious optimism comes amid renewed indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian officials. According to sources close to the negotiations, recent discussions have been “constructive,” though far from conclusive. However, progress has been complicated by Washington’s recent decision to impose fresh sanctions on Iran, particularly targeting its oil exports to China — one of Iran’s largest trade partners.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi strongly condemned the move, calling the sanctions “counterproductive” and “in direct conflict with the spirit of ongoing negotiations.” Speaking to Iranian state media, Araqchi urged the U.S. to show goodwill through practical steps, rather than punitive measures.
Despite these setbacks, Omani officials remain hopeful. “We believe both sides recognize the value of a deal not just for their own interests, but for the broader peace and stability of the Middle East,” said an Omani diplomat familiar with the talks.
A Regional Proposal to Build Trust
In a bold diplomatic gesture, Iran recently proposed the creation of a joint regional uranium enrichment consortium that would include Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The aim, according to Iranian officials, is to increase transparency and ease concerns about Iran’s nuclear intentions.
The proposal is seen as an effort to demonstrate that Iran’s nuclear ambitions are strictly civilian in nature. It would also give neighboring Gulf countries a direct role in overseeing and verifying enrichment activities — something that could go a long way in building regional trust.
While the details of the proposal are still being debated, early reactions from Gulf nations have been mixed. Some see it as a potential game-changer, while others remain skeptical of Iran’s true intentions. Still, Omani officials have praised the idea as “a positive step toward mutual accountability and regional cooperation.”
Trump’s Hardline Warning
Former President Donald Trump, who is attending the GCC summit in a post-presidency diplomatic capacity, used his platform to reiterate a hardline stance against Iran. In a speech to GCC leaders, Trump called on Tehran to halt support for proxy groups such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
“These terrorist groups are funded and trained by Iran. There can be no real peace in the region while this continues,” Trump said. He further warned that “serious consequences” would follow if Iran fails to comply with terms in any future nuclear arrangement.
Trump’s comments drew a mixed response from summit attendees. While some Gulf nations echoed his concerns, others expressed worry that too much pressure could derail delicate diplomatic efforts.
Oman’s Vision for a Nuclear-Free Region
Throughout the summit, Oman has continued to push for its long-standing vision of a nuclear-weapons-free Middle East. Omani officials argue that reducing nuclear threats would not only increase security but also promote economic development, investment, and technological collaboration across the region.
The Sultanate has emphasized that peace and diplomacy — not threats or isolation — are the most effective paths forward. In its official statement to the summit, Oman called for all parties to commit to open dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful dispute resolution.
“Oman believes in balanced, inclusive diplomacy,” said Deputy Prime Minister Al Sayyid Asaad. “Our region deserves a future free from fear and filled with opportunity. We must all work toward that vision.”
A Glimmer of Hope in a Tense Region
As diplomatic discussions continue behind closed doors, Oman’s role as a mediator offers a rare glimmer of hope. In a region where tensions often run high, Muscat’s calm, pragmatic approach is widely respected.
While significant obstacles remain — including disagreements over sanctions, Iran’s regional policies, and the structure of a future deal — the renewed momentum has given diplomats across the Gulf something to work with.
For now, the world watches closely as Oman quietly but persistently pushes both the U.S. and Iran toward a path of compromise. If successful, such a deal could mark a turning point not only in U.S.-Iran relations but also in the broader effort to bring lasting peace and stability to the Middle East.
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