US & Iran Set Oman Nuclear Talks as Disputes Persist on Scope

The United States and Iran will hold nuclear talks on Friday in Muscat, hosted by Oman, as diplomatic contact resumes amid heightened regional tensions, a diplomat said.

The meeting follows days of uncertainty over whether the talks would proceed, reflecting sharp disagreements over both substance and format. Iranian officials have said discussions must be limited to Iran nuclear programme issues, including sanctions relief and nuclear verification measures.

Tehran has repeatedly rejected any attempt to widen the agenda to include its ballistic missile programme or regional activities.

• US and Iran resume nuclear talks in Oman amid disputes over scope
• Iran insists Muscat talks focus only on nuclear issues and sanctions
• Oman hosts US-Iran talks as regional tensions remain high

U.S. officials, however, have indicated that Washington wants a broader framework. They argue that Iran’s ballistic missile development and its support for armed groups in the Middle East are inseparable from the nuclear issue and regional security. This gap over scope remains the central obstacle heading into the talks.

Oman’s role as host reflects its long-standing position as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran. Previous US-Iran negotiations have also taken place there, with Muscat viewed by both sides as a neutral venue capable of keeping channels open during periods of confrontation.

The talks come against a backdrop of rising tensions. The United States has increased its US military presence in the region, while Iran has faced international criticism over domestic unrest and its handling of protests. Incidents involving naval forces in regional waters have further strained relations.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran faces serious consequences if diplomacy fails, while Iranian leaders have accused Washington of pressure tactics designed to force concessions. Both sides deny seeking escalation but continue to exchange sharp public messages.

Regional governments have quietly encouraged the talks to go ahead, warning that further deterioration could destabilise Gulf security and energy markets.

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Despite agreement on the venue and timing, diplomats caution that expectations are limited. The talks are seen as a test of whether dialogue can continue at all, rather than a forum likely to produce immediate breakthroughs.