Iran-US Nuclear Talks Yield Limited Progress in Fifth Round

The fifth round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman in Rome, concluded with limited but inconclusive progress. Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi expressed hope to clarify remaining issues soon to reach a sustainable and honorable agreement, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the session as professional but acknowledged the complexity and need for further discussions. The core challenge remains the U.S. demand for Iran to cease uranium enrichment, which Iran insists must continue, asserting its right to peaceful nuclear energy and sanction relief. The U.S. envoy reiterated a firm red line against any enrichment capacity, emphasizing concerns about potential nuclear weapons development. No date has been set for the next round of talks, with mediators expected to determine the timing amid ongoing high-stakes negotiations aimed at preventing nuclear weapon proliferation and lifting sanctions. Both sides maintain firm public stances, but dialogue continues in pursuit of a lasting resolution.