A new round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States is set to take place in Oman next week, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Baghaei expressed Tehran’s gratitude to Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi for hosting and mediating the latest round of talks held on Saturday. “We thank Oman and FM @badralbusaidi for their excellent job in hosting and mediating these talks,” Baghaei wrote, confirming that Muscat will continue its role in facilitating the dialogue.

Saturday's negotiations were indirect and conducted in separate rooms, with messages exchanged through Oman’s top diplomat—an arrangement Iran insisted upon, rejecting direct, face-to-face engagement reportedly favored by former US President Donald Trump.

According to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the discussions lasted over two and a half hours and were characterized by a “productive, calm and positive atmosphere.” He also disclosed a brief post-talk encounter between the heads of the Iranian and US delegations, which included a short exchange in the presence of the Omani foreign minister. Araghchi emphasized that the interaction was in line with Iran’s diplomatic etiquette.

“Both sides have agreed to continue the talks, probably next Saturday,” Araghchi noted, adding, “Iran and the US side want an agreement in the short term. We do not want talks for the sake of talks.”

While details of the negotiation agenda remain undisclosed, the continuation of the indirect format suggests cautious optimism amid longstanding tensions between Tehran and Washington.

Commenting briefly on the matter, US President Donald Trump said the talks were “going okay,” offering a measured assessment of the ongoing dialogue.

The diplomatic initiative—revived with the help of Muscat—follows previous Omani-brokered efforts to deescalate tensions in the region, particularly concerning nuclear-related issues, sanctions, and regional security. (ILKHA)