Amid escalating tensions and warnings from the UN nuclear watchdog, the United States and Iran have commenced a second round of high-level nuclear negotiations in Rome. These discussions follow initial talks in Muscat, which were described as constructive, with Oman serving as the mediator. The central issue remains Iran's uranium enrichment, which has reached levels far exceeding the 2015 nuclear deal's stipulations, a deal the US exited in 2018.
Iran is seeking support from allies, notably Russia, whose foreign minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed readiness to mediate. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been actively engaging with Russian officials, highlighting Russia's pivotal role in past agreements. Despite Iran's openness to certain concessions, it firmly rejects relinquishing nuclear technology entirely.
The negotiations occur against a backdrop of heightened military rhetoric, with US President Trump threatening military consequences should diplomacy fail. Concurrently, reports suggest Washington has provided Israel with bunker-busting bombs, stirring fears of potential military action.
In tandem with these negotiations, Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet the Sultan of Oman, underscoring the regional and international significance of the ongoing talks. Both leaders are expected to discuss broader geopolitical issues, reinforcing Oman's role as a key intermediary between the US and Iran.
As talks progress, the stakes remain high. The outcome could significantly influence regional stability and the future of international nuclear agreements.
