MUSCAT, Oman — In a critical attempt to de-escalate mounting tensions in the Middle East, senior officials from Iran and the United States held separate, indirect meetings in Muscat on Friday, February 6, 2026. The sultanate of Oman, acting as a “shuttle mediator,” facilitated the exchange of proposals at a secure palace on the outskirts of the capital.
The Delegations The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who arrived in Muscat early Friday. On the American side, the team was led by Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, accompanied by Jared Kushner, the President’s son-in-law and influential advisor.
A Clash of Agendas Despite the diplomatic engagement, both sides remain far apart on the scope of the negotiations:
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Iran’s Position: Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized that Tehran is focused exclusively on the nuclear issue and its right to enrichment. He stated on social media that Iran enters the room with “open eyes” and a firm memory of previous diplomatic failures.
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The U.S. Position: The Trump administration, supported by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is pushing for a broader deal. Washington’s “red lines” include Iran’s ballistic missile program, its support for regional proxy groups, and the domestic treatment of its citizens following recent nationwide protests.
The Stakes The talks come at a time of extreme military readiness. The U.S. has bolstered its naval presence in the region, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, as a deterrent. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that while the U.S. prefers a diplomatic solution, President Trump is prepared to evaluate “all options” should the Muscat talks fail to yield progress toward “zero nuclear capability.”
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who met with each delegation individually, stated that the consultations are aimed at “preparing the appropriate circumstances” for a return to formal technical negotiations. As of Friday evening, the talks have moved into a second round of indirect exchanges.