In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy to the Middle East, Steven Witkoff, met with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on Saturday. The meeting, facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Said Badr, marks the first direct dialogue between the two nations in years and signals a potential shift towards renewed diplomatic engagement.
According to a statement released by the White House, the discussions were “positive and constructive,” with both sides expressing a willingness to pursue dialogue as a means of addressing longstanding tensions. Ambassador Ana Escrogima, the U.S. envoy to Oman, accompanied Witkoff during the talks.
Witkoff conveyed President Donald Trump’s commitment to resolving differences with Iran through peaceful and diplomatic means. “Special Envoy Witkoff underscored to Dr. Araghchi that he had instructions from President Trump to resolve our two nations’ differences through dialogue and diplomacy, if that is possible,” the White House statement read.
The discussions reportedly touched on key areas of contention, including Iran’s nuclear program and the potential easing of U.S. sanctions. The U.S. expressed appreciation to Oman for its role in facilitating the meeting and supporting regional peace initiatives.
Iran’s state news agency IRNA confirmed the meeting, stating that both parties exchanged views on critical bilateral issues, with a particular focus on nuclear negotiations and sanction relief. The Iranian Foreign Ministry emphasized that the talks were an initial step to evaluate Washington’s sincerity and willingness to engage in good-faith diplomacy.
The IRNA report also revealed that the meeting followed a letter from President Trump to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, proposing the initiation of direct negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement.
Iran signaled its openness to continued diplomacy, noting that it would give the process a “genuine chance” provided the U.S. demonstrated seriousness and goodwill.
Both sides have agreed to reconvene in Muscat next Saturday for further discussions, raising cautious optimism that the renewed dialogue may lead to a reduction in hostilities and pave the way for a broader diplomatic breakthrough.
