Oman Mediates Iranian-American "Nuclear" Talks in Geneva

SadaNews - Senior diplomats from Iran and the United States are scheduled to hold talks in Geneva today, Tuesday, regarding Tehran's nuclear program, mediated by Oman.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Biegun will hold indirect negotiations at the Omani embassy.

These talks come after weeks of tension between Washington and Tehran, following the violent suppression of a wave of protests in January by Iranian security forces, during which thousands were reported killed.

In response, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iranian leadership with military intervention and sent an aircraft carrier to the region.

An initial round of talks between representatives from Iran and the United States aimed at de-escalation was held in Oman earlier this month.

Current discussions are set to focus on the controversial Iranian nuclear program.

Washington has sought for years to prevent the Iranian government from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Tehran has indicated its willingness to limit its nuclear program in exchange for the U.S. lifting harsh economic sanctions.

However, Iran has asserted that it will not negotiate on other issues, such as reducing its missile arsenal or ending its support for armed groups.

Trump Warns..

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that he would participate "indirectly" in the talks between Iran and the United States regarding Tehran's nuclear program, which are set to begin today in Geneva.

Trump added to reporters aboard Air Force One: "I will participate in those talks indirectly. They will be extremely important."

Trump affirmed that he believes Tehran wants to reach an agreement.

He continued, saying that Iran sought tough negotiations, but learned the consequences of this hardline stance last summer when the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear sites.

Trump pointed out that the Iranians have an incentive to negotiate this time, saying, "I don't think they want to (bear) the consequences of not reaching an agreement."