United States and Iran to Hold Direct Talks on Nuclear Program, but Diverging Positions Remain

United States and Iran to Hold Direct Talks on Nuclear Program, but Diverging Positions Remain

Washington: President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States will engage in direct talks with Iran regarding its nuclear program, but he cautioned that if these discussions fail, Iran will "face big trouble."

Meanwhile, Iran confirmed that talks will take place, but they stated that the discussions will be indirect and conducted through intermediaries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on social media that high-level indirect talks will occur in Oman on Saturday, where the United States and Iran will engage with each other.

Trump told reporters at the White House, "We are having direct talks, and perhaps there will be a deal," but he added, "Making a deal is good, otherwise... what I want to say is clear."

Additionally, Trump warned Iran, stating, "If the talks are unsuccessful, Iran will face big trouble, and it could be a bad day for them."

Iran, which claims its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, had rejected Trump's previous calls for direct talks. However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian kept the door open for indirect discussions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported Trump's initiative, stating that Israel and the United States are working together toward the same goal: preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Furthermore, Trump is pressuring Iran to halt its nuclear activities, or else he may take tougher measures.