Fifth Round Iran-US Nuclear Talks Expected in Rome May 23

The fifth round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States is scheduled to take place in Rome on May 23, with Oman continuing its role as a mediator between the two adversaries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reiterated Iran's firm stance that uranium enrichment will continue regardless of any agreement, emphasizing that Iran remains at the negotiating table to defend its rights amid what it views as excessive U.S. demands. Despite ongoing diplomacy, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has expressed skepticism about the talks producing any results. These negotiations aim to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for easing U.S. sanctions, but progress remains limited and the situation is complicated by Iran's rapid advancement in uranium enrichment since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. The U.S. has warned of potential military action if diplomacy fails, underscoring the high stakes of the negotiations. Oman’s mediation efforts continue as the two countries navigate a complex and tense relationship over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional security concerns.