Iran says negotiations with U.S. to continue, but warns of mistrust

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced during a high-level diplomatic briefing in Tehran on Monday that Iran would proceed with indirect negotiations with the United States following a series of preliminary discussions involving mediators and envoys from the incoming Trump administration in Oman. The decision to persist with these sensitive diplomatic channels aims to address long-standing tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program and regional influence, though Tehran remains deeply skeptical of Washington's long-term intentions. These discussions serve as a critical litmus test for whether the two adversaries can find common ground before a transition of power in the U.S. government occurs. The diplomatic engagement in Oman highlights a pragmatic shift in Tehran’s strategy, as the country seeks to mitigate the economic pressures of international sanctions and avoid a further escalation of hostilities in the Middle East. While Araghchi confirmed the continuation of the dialogue, he emphasized that the talks are currently being conducted through intermediaries to navigate the lack of formal diplomatic ties between the two nations. The choice of Oman as a venue underscores its historical role as a neutral facilitator that has repeatedly bridged the gap between Western powers and the Islamic Republic over the past decade. Despite the willingness to talk, the Iranian government has voiced significant reservations regarding the reliability of the American side, specifically referencing the previous withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal during Donald Trump's first term. Iranian officials have warned that while the door to diplomacy is open, any progress will be contingent on concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric. The atmosphere of mistrust continues to overshadow the technical aspects of the negotiations, with both sides cautious about making concessions that could be perceived as signs of domestic weakness or strategic retreat.