US-Iran Nuclear Talks Begin Amid Tensions, Trump Warns of Military Action Without Deal
April 15, 2025
Saudi Arabia is keen on achieving greater stability in the region, viewing the current situation as precarious and balancing the potential for a solid agreement against the risk of war.
Significant discussions between the United States and Iran regarding Iran's nuclear program have commenced in Oman, following American threats of military action if no agreement is reached.
President Trump announced these negotiations on April 7, 2025, during a joint appearance with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, asserting that the talks would be 'direct,' a claim refuted by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who stated they would be indirect for the time being.
Experts like Karim Bitar from Sciences Po Paris highlight that Iran's primary concern is regime survival and alleviating sanctions to revive its struggling economy amid rising domestic discontent.
The lack of direct diplomatic contact over the past 45 years has heightened the potential for misunderstanding, complicating the negotiation process.
This meeting represents a significant achievement for Trump, especially when compared to the diplomatic setbacks experienced under his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Both Trump and Iranian leader Ayatollah Khamenei recognize the risks associated with military conflict, emphasizing the necessity of reaching a deal to avert violence.
Omani officials express optimism about the talks, hoping that this positive outlook can translate into concrete outcomes despite the ongoing regional tensions.
Should military confrontation arise, the U.S. would have to manage multiple fronts, including existing conflicts with Houthi militias in the region, as noted by military leadership.
A U.S. military strike could be executed either unilaterally or in coordination with Israel, reflecting the growing military cooperation between the two nations.
Meetings in Moscow are planned for the end of the week, although Russian officials have not confirmed the exact date.
Analysts suggest that the inability to agree on the negotiation format indicates a lack of serious commitment from both sides, with success estimates ranging from 'zero to none.'
Summary based on 156 sources
Get a daily email with more World News stories
Sources

The New York Times • Apr 11, 2025
New Talks With Iran
The New York Times • Apr 12, 2025
What to Know About U.S. Talks With Iran Over Its Nuclear Program
The Guardian • Apr 12, 2025
Iran and US to meet for nuclear talks but little obvious prospect of success
The Guardian • Apr 12, 2025
Iranian minister arrives for mediated talks with US on nuclear programme