MUSCAT – Iran and the United States concluded their first round of indirect negotiations in Oman today, February 6, 2026. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi termed the discussions a "very good start," aimed at creating a framework to prevent a full-scale regional war.

Key Takeaways:

• The Goal: Establishing foundations to resume technical and diplomatic talks following a year of intense military friction, including the June 2025 strikes on Iranian sites.
• The Players: Mediated by Oman’s Sayyid Badr Albusaidi; the US team notably included Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, alongside CENTCOM military officials.
• Conflicting Agendas: Iran remains firm that talks cover only the nuclear file, while the US continues to push for a broader deal including ballistic missiles and regional proxies.
• Market Reaction: Brent crude prices briefly dipped below $67 on news of the positive diplomatic atmosphere.

While Araghchi noted that a "mutually satisfactory agreement" is possible if current momentum continues, he emphasized that negotiators must now return to their capitals for further instructions.