Iran rejects Donald Trump's claim of direct core talks, confirming indirect talks via Oman | Today news

Iran rejected US President Donald Trump’s allegation that direct discussions about his nuclear program are underway, demanding that discussions by Oman be indirect and mediated. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the meeting was scheduled at the high level on Saturday in Oman, repeating that “the ball is in America’s court.” (Photo by Karen Minasyan / AFP) (AFP) Iran denied being involved with direct discussions with the United States about his nuclear program, and contradicted the demands made by President Donald Trump. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that indirect, high -level discussions would take place in Oman, but demanded that any discussions with Washington be conducted by intermediaries. “It’s just as an opportunity as a test. The ball is in America’s court, ‘Araghchi placed on X and confirmed Iran’s attitude. Mediation by Oman According to Iranian state media, the talks will be led by Araghchi and US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, with Oman’s foreign minister, Badr Al Busaidi, serving as the intermediary. The meeting is planned for Saturday in Muscat, Oman. Trump argues that direct involvement speaks from the White House on Monday, and President Trump claimed: “We have direct conversations with Iran, and they started. It’s going to Saturday. We have a very big meeting, and we’ll see what can happen.” He said discussions occur “at the highest level”, although he did not disclose who would participate or where the meeting would be held. Warning from Trump: “Very bad day for Iran” while Trump expressed hope for a diplomatic breakthrough, he issued a clear warning if negotiations failed: “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and if the talks are not successful, I think it will be a very bad day for Iran.” He emphasizes a preference for diplomacy and says, “Everyone agrees that an agreement would prefer.” Tensions remain high. The exchange comes amid increased tension, with Trump previously warning about possible military action as Tehran refuses to negotiate. In March, he sent a letter to Iran’s highest leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asking for talks, although Iranian officials said at the time that Tehran would not be forced. Iran maintains the civic purpose for the nuclear program Tehran has always argued that its nuclear program for peaceful, civil energy purposes. However, Western countries remain skeptical and accuse Iran of having a clandestine arms agenda. While both sides are preparing for Saturday’s indirect discussions, the future of the US Iran nuclear diplomacy in the balance between a diplomatic breakthrough and a return to confrontation. First published: 8 Apr 2025, 23:57 IST