US–Iran Talks in Oman Amid White House Push for ‘Zero Nuclear Capability’

Washington: The White House has confirmed that upcoming talks between the United States and Iran will be held in Oman, as President Donald Trump’s administration continues diplomatic efforts while maintaining a firm demand that Tehran accept “zero nuclear capability.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will travel to Oman for the negotiations, after plans to hold the discussions in Turkey were changed. She did not provide specific reasons for the shift in venue but described it as part of the administration’s broader diplomatic strategy.

“Diplomacy is always the president’s first choice when dealing with countries across the world, whether allies or adversaries,” Leavitt said during a media briefing.

When asked about the agenda for the talks, Leavitt emphasised President Trump’s position regarding Iran’s nuclear programme. “The president has been very clear in his demand for zero nuclear capability from the Iranian regime, and he wants to explore whether a deal can be reached,” she stated.

She also issued a cautionary message to Tehran, stressing that the United States has multiple options if diplomatic negotiations fail. “While these talks are underway, the Iranian regime should remember that the president, as commander-in-chief of the world’s most powerful military, has several alternatives beyond diplomacy,” she said.

The White House indicated that Trump is awaiting updates from his envoys following the discussions in Oman. However, officials have not outlined possible concessions or a timeline for progress, reiterating that while the administration supports diplomatic engagement, it will not compromise on its core demands.

Relations between the US and Iran have seen repeated cycles of negotiation and tension, often involving indirect dialogue through intermediaries or neutral locations in the Gulf region. The main issues typically revolve around Iran’s nuclear activities, sanctions relief, and regional security concerns.

Oman has historically played a significant role as a discreet diplomatic channel between Washington and Tehran, frequently facilitating back-channel discussions even when formal negotiations have stalled elsewhere.

With inputs from IANS