Iran, U.S. Conclude Fifth Round of Indirect Nuclear Talks in Rome

(MENAFN) In Rome on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described the fifth round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States as “one of the most professional rounds.”

“I think the American side at present has a better and more clear understanding of our positions,” Araghchi told a news agency following the latest talks.

Participants exchanged various proposals during the meeting, and it was agreed that both delegations would review them further and prepare for another round. Araghchi noted that the next session could “enter details to some extent” provided both parties agree on fresh approaches.

Acknowledging the complexity of the negotiations, Araghchi emphasized that a resolution won’t come swiftly. However, he added, “the fact that we are now treading along a reasonable path is (a kind of) progress.”

Echoing this sentiment, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei commented on X that the session took place in a “calm and professional” environment. He added that the time and location for the upcoming talks would be announced soon.

Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi also weighed in on X, stating the round ended “with some but not conclusive progress.”

The fifth session, which lasted more than three hours, was co-led by Araghchi and U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff. The ongoing discussions, mediated by Oman, began in April and have included four previous rounds—three in Muscat and one in Rome—focused on Tehran’s nuclear activities and Washington’s sanctions.

Despite the negotiations, tensions remain over uranium enrichment. U.S. officials have recently insisted that Iran fully halt the process—an expectation Tehran continues to firmly reject.

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