Negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East will resume tomorrow in Oman. This development follows conflicting reports about Iran’s willingness to participate. Initial reports indicated that the Islamic Republic might withdraw from the talks, which are set to be led by US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump‘s son-in-law.
A crucial point of contention remains Washington’s demand for limitations on Iran’s nuclear program. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN’s nuclear watchdog, estimates that Iran currently holds approximately 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity. This level of enrichment is just a technical step away from the 90 percent threshold that would classify the material as weapons-grade.
Despite these challenges, the negotiations will proceed, with a change of venue from Istanbul to the Omani capital of Muscat. According to a US official, Arab leaders urged that the meeting take place, stating, “They asked us to keep the meeting and listen to what the Iranians have to say.” The official added that the US administration is “very skeptical” but agreed to continue with the talks to respect regional allies and maintain a diplomatic approach.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi confirmed the talks would commence at 10:00 on March 15, 2024, expressing gratitude towards Oman for facilitating the arrangements.
These diplomatic efforts come on the heels of heightened military tensions in the region. On the night of March 12, US forces shot down an Iranian drone that was reportedly approaching the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier stationed in the Arabian Sea. Captain Tim Hawkins of the Central Command (Centcom) stated that the Shahed-139 drone “aggressively approached” the carrier with “unclear intent,” despite de-escalatory measures in place. The drone was intercepted and destroyed by an F-35C fighter approximately 500 miles off the southern coast of Iran.
In a related incident, US forces confirmed that Iranian vessels attempted to seize the American-flagged oil tanker, the Stena Imperative. Two smaller boats and an accompanying drone approached the tanker at high speeds, threatening to board it. In response, the USS McFaul intervened and provided an escort for the tanker with defensive air support from the US Air Force.
As the US and Iran navigate these complex negotiations, the outcome of the talks could have significant implications for stability in the region and the future of Iran’s nuclear program. The international community remains watchful, aware that the stakes are high as both sides work to find common ground.
