The Iranian Foreign Ministry announced on Friday that the head of the U.S. negotiating team, Steve Witkoff, departed early from the Oman-mediated nuclear talks in Rome. “The head of the American negotiating team left here a few minutes ago due to his flight schedule,” spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei told state television.
This fifth round of indirect discussions between Iran and the United States aimed to address longstanding tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. The talks, facilitated by Oman, saw Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi leading the Iranian delegation, while Steve Witkoff headed the U.S. team.
The sudden departure of the U.S. negotiator has raised questions about the progress of the negotiations. While officials cite scheduling conflicts, observers are keen to understand the implications for future dialogue. The ongoing talks are crucial for easing regional tensions and potentially lifting economic sanctions that have impacted Iran’s economy.
Both sides have expressed a desire to find common ground, but issues remain over compliance and verification measures related to Iran’s nuclear activities. The international community watches closely, hopeful that diplomacy will prevail in resolving one of the most pressing security concerns in the Middle East.
