Nuclear talks between Iran and US show signs of progress, mediator says

Iran and the United States ended their fifth round of nuclear talks in Rome with some progress but no resolution, according to the mediator from Oman.

Negotiators from Iran and the United States have made what was described as "some but not conclusive progress" in discussions over Tehran’s expanding nuclear program. The update came Friday from Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who has been mediating the closed-door talks in Rome.

Al-Busaidi said the two sides were continuing efforts toward a peaceful agreement, although core disagreements remain unresolved. Chief among them is the United States’ demand that Iran stop uranium enrichment entirely, which Tehran has labeled a red line.

"The fifth round of Iran US talks have concluded today in Rome with some but not conclusive progress," al-Busaidi wrote on X. "We hope to clarify the remaining issues in the coming days to move toward a sustainable and honourable agreement."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state television that ideas were exchanged and would be taken back to both capitals without creating obligations for either party. He expressed hope that with a better understanding of Iran’s position, future meetings could deliver results.

“These negotiations are too complex to be resolved quickly,” Araghchi said. “We are not there yet, but we remain optimistic.”

The United States was represented by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and State Department official Michael Anton. A senior U.S. official said the talks remain constructive but acknowledged that more work is needed.

The discussions took place at the Omani Embassy in Rome. Iranian sources noted that Witkoff left the meeting early, and the U.S. side did not issue a public comment.

The goal of the negotiations is to place limits on Iran’s nuclear program in return for lifting some U.S. sanctions. While both sides appear open to continued dialogue, significant differences still block a final agreement.

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