Indirect talks between the United States and Iran, mediated by Oman, took place in Muscat, Oman, on February 6, 2026, according to statements from both Iranian and Omani officials. The discussions, focused on Iran’s nuclear program, represent a preliminary effort to de-escalate tensions following a recent U.S. Bombing of Iranian nuclear sites and a subsequent crackdown by Tehran on nationwide protests, as reported by the Associated Press.
The talks, described as a “good start” by Iranian officials, involved indirect negotiations, with Omani officials acting as intermediaries. According to the Reuters report from February 7, 2026, Iran’s top diplomat characterized the discussions as positive. However, the Al Jazeera report of February 10, 2026, noted that the two sides “discussed the latest developments in the Iranian-American negotiations” without detailing any specific breakthroughs.
Ali Larijani, a top security official in Iran’s government and close advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, traveled to Oman on February 10, 2026, to meet with Omani ruler Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, as reported by Al Jazeera and WRAL. Larijani’s visit followed the initial round of talks and was intended to explore “ways to reach a balanced and just agreement” between the two sides, according to the Oman News Agency. He also met with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, the chief intermediary in the U.S.-Iran talks.
A second round of talks has been confirmed, though a date has not yet been announced. Switzerland confirmed on Saturday, February 15, 2026, that Oman would host the next round of talks in Geneva, with the United States pressing Tehran on its nuclear program, according to Al Arabiya.
The current diplomatic efforts come amid a period of heightened tensions and a growing U.S. Military presence in the region. The Associated Press reported that for the first time, the U.S. Brought its top military commander in the Middle East to the table during the initial talks in Muscat.
