Micah Jonah
February 10, 2026
Iran has said recent indirect nuclear talks with the United States helped Tehran assess Washington’s seriousness, revealed enough common ground to continue the diplomatic process.
Iranian and U.S. officials held talks last week in Oman through Omani mediators, amid heightened regional tensions following the deployment of a U.S. naval flotilla to the area. Iranian officials said the engagement was brief but meaningful.
Foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei said the Muscat meeting was primarily aimed at testing the intentions of the U.S. side and determining whether dialogue could move forward. He noted that, following the discussions, Iran felt there was sufficient understanding to remain on the diplomatic path.
Baghaei also confirmed that a visit to Oman by Ali Larijani, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, was pre planned, part of broader regional consultations. He added that Larijani is expected to travel next to Qatar as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements.
Commenting on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s expected visit to Washington, Baghaei said the United States should act independently and avoid external pressures, particularly those that could undermine regional stability and even U.S. interests.
The talks signal cautious optimism from Tehran as both sides weigh the prospects of reviving diplomacy after months of strained relations and rising military tensions in the Middle East.
