WASHINGTON: After escalating tensions, the United States has agreed to enter negotiations with Iran.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. is ready to meet with Iranian officials this week, provided that the discussions cover a broad range of issues beyond Iran’s nuclear program.
Rubio emphasized that past negotiations with Iran have always been welcomed, but these talks should also address Iran’s ballistic missile program, support for proxy groups in the region, and the treatment of Iranian citizens.
The negotiations were originally scheduled to take place in Istanbul on Friday, but Iran later requested that they be held in Oman. Iran has also expressed a desire to limit the discussions solely to nuclear issues.
The U.S., however, insists that the talks take place in Istanbul and cover a wider agenda, not restricted to the nuclear program.
Special envoy Steve Witkoff, appointed by former President Trump, remains prepared to participate in the scheduled negotiations.
