Rome: The fifth round of indirect negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America has commenced at the headquarters of the Sultanate of Oman’s mission in Rome. This round of talks began on Friday afternoon, marking a continuation of the discussions aimed at resolving ongoing nuclear issues.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has arrived in Rome to participate in these negotiations. The talks involve Steve Witkoff, the US President’s Special Envoy, and are being mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi. Previous rounds have been held in Muscat and Rome, with this being the fifth round of discussions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed his views on the negotiations in a post on the “X” platform, stating, “On the eve of my trip to Rome for the fifth round of indirect negotiations with the US, the equation for reaching an agreement is not complicated: Zero nuclear weapons = we have an agreement. Zero enrichment = no agreement.” He emphasized the urgency of the situation by adding, “The time has come to make a decision.”
In a recent television interview, Araqchi also highlighted the core issue at stake, stating, “The American side does not believe in Iran’s right to enrichment. If that is their goal, then there is no agreement in sight.” This statement underscores the significant challenges that remain in reaching a consensus between the two nations.