Diplomacy on the Line: Oman’s Role in U. S. -Iran Talks

The foreign minister of Oman, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, is working behind the scenes to keep U. S. and Iranian leaders talking about Tehran’s nuclear program. He says that peace is still possible if the talks are allowed to continue and that no other option—such as military action—can solve the problem. Al Busaidi argues that the core of any agreement is Iran’s promise not to keep or produce nuclear material that could make a bomb. He notes this commitment is new compared with earlier deals and would prevent Iran from stockpiling enriched uranium. He stresses that full, independent inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is essential. If a deal is reached, inspectors would have access to all sites, and even U. S. observers could be allowed in.The minister also points out that Iran has said it will discuss its missile program and other regional issues only after the nuclear part is settled. He believes that the U. S. , Iranian officials, and Oman can finalize broad terms of a deal quickly—potentially within days—while the detailed technical work will take up to three months. Al Busaidi says that sanctions relief is tied to the nuclear agreement, but he focuses on the main issue: preventing Iran from developing a bomb. He urges U. S. leaders to give negotiators more time and space, warning that any military strike—whether by Israel or the U. S. —would derail progress.