MUSCAT, Oman – Talks between the United States and Iran regarding Iran’s nuclear program have commenced in Muscat, Oman. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is seeking a “fair agreement” during these discussions.

The negotiations come after US President Donald Trump withdrew the US from a previous nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers in 2018. Trump has expressed his desire to negotiate a “better” deal. Iran, until now, had been reluctant to revisit the agreement.

It remains uncertain if the two sides will meet face-to-face, but the talks are viewed as a crucial initial step in determining the possibility of reaching a new agreement. The discussions are expected to focus on establishing a framework for future negotiations.

Araghchi has stressed the importance of indirect talks at this stage, while Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff has hinted at the possibility of face-to-face meetings. The main point of contention lies in the type of deal each side is willing to accept, with Trump insisting on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Iran’s objective is to limit, rather than dismantle, its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Araghchi emphasized the need for a fair and honorable agreement that is mutually beneficial. The team accompanying Araghchi consists of experts with a history of negotiating on this issue.

In a related development, Trump recently conveyed his interest in reaching a deal with Iran to prevent them from obtaining nuclear weapons. Both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have expressed their stance against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

Despite Iran’s assertions that its nuclear activities are peaceful, the country has breached restrictions imposed by the existing nuclear deal following the US withdrawal. These violations, coupled with the accumulation of highly-enriched uranium, have heightened tensions between Iran and the US.