High-level talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear program concluded in Rome on Saturday, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about a diplomatic way forward. The negotiations, which took place for over four hours, marked the second round of discussions since the initial talks in Muscat, Oman.
The Trump administration described the talks as “very good progress,” while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signaled that there is “movement forward” and a better understanding on some principles and goals. However, Araghchi also emphasized that the 2015 nuclear deal, known as JCPOA, is “no longer good enough for us.”
Iranian officials have stated that technical talks between experts will begin in Oman on Wednesday ahead of a third round of high-level talks next Saturday. The Iranian government has expressed willingness to negotiate some compromises in return for sanctions relief to ease pressure on its hard-hit economy.
The US and Iran have had decades of animosity over Iran’s nuclear capabilities, with the US seeking to stop production of highly enriched uranium, which it believes is aimed at building an atomic bomb. Diplomatic activity surrounding the talks has been intense, with allies and adversaries alike attempting to understand and influence the aims of the negotiations.
President Trump expressed optimism about reaching a peaceful resolution, stating that he would prefer to see Iran live without death and that his first option would be diplomacy. However, US intelligence agencies have warned that Israel will likely attempt to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The talks come as tensions in the Middle East remain heightened, with Israeli attacks weakening Iran’s network of proxies across the region. The latest round of negotiations has been preceded by a flurry of diplomatic activity and signals that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is seeking to play a role in de-escalation efforts between regional foes.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/19/politics/iran-talks-rome-nuclear-program/index.html