Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting Oman for the 8th Indian Ocean Conference, which is hosted by Oman, India, and Singapore. The visit follows tensions regarding Iran’s nuclear program and U.S. policies, particularly Trump’s maximum pressure strategy. Bilateral meetings with other officials are expected during the conference, while Iran’s leadership has expressed opposition to new negotiations with the U.S.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to visit Oman to participate in the 8th Indian Ocean Conference, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry. This regional conference, taking place in Muscat, will be co-hosted by Oman, India, and Singapore. While the specific dates of the visit were not disclosed, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei indicated that Araghchi would engage in bilateral discussions with other attending officials during the event.
Oman has historically served as a mediator between Iran and other nations, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Western countries regarding Iran’s nuclear program. The visit coincides with comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed a desire to reach a deal with Iran without resorting to military action. Trump has reinstated a stringent “maximum pressure” policy on Tehran, stemming from concerns about its alleged nuclear weapon development, claims Iran strongly denies.
In 2018, the Trump administration exited the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a significant nuclear agreement with Iran, and reinstated severe sanctions. In response, Iran maintained compliance for a year following the U.S. withdrawal but gradually began reducing its commitments thereafter. Additionally, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently remarked against negotiations with the U.S., asserting that prior dealings yield no resolution.
Abbas Araghchi’s upcoming visit to Oman highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the broader geopolitical tensions in the region. With Oman acting as a mediator and Trump suggesting the possibility of a new agreement, the discussions at the Indian Ocean Conference may have significant implications for future relations. Meanwhile, Iran’s leadership remains firmly opposed to negotiations with the U.S., emphasizing the complexities of the situation.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
