Trump wrote a letter to Iran and asked for indirect talks on the nuclear deal. In case Iran refuses talks, Trump threatens it with nuclear threats.

Renewed hopes amid historic tensions:

Iran and the United States have resumed indirect negotiations. These latest talks are being mediated by Oman and are focused only on Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of economic sanctions. Iran and the US described the discussions as “constructive.” Their talks are opening a ray of hope in minimizing or ending threats and mistrust between the two nations.

The ongoing indirect talks:

The Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed that the US and Iran are in talks. However, their discussions are not direct. Omani mediators are playing a crucial role in these talks. No diplomatic ties have existed between Tehran and Washington since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. On Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff in Muscat, Oman. Both countries have discussed nuclear issues since the collapse of the 2015 nuclear agreement. After the positive response to this talk, another talk is scheduled for April 19.

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Focus of the talks:

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei clarified that the talks will strictly focus on Iran’s nuclear activities and U.S. sanctions. Esmaeil Baqaei said during a televised Interview, “Iran will not hold any discussions with the U.S. beyond these two issues.” Some U.S. analysts had hoped the talks would include Tehran’s missile development and its support for militant networks across the Middle East. However, Iran has firmly rejected expanding the agenda beyond the nuclear file.

The 2015 nuclear deal and Trump’s exit:

During the first term of Trump’s reign, he made a decision and pulled the US out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. The deal “Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action” (JCPOA) has restricted Iran from using its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. In addition, Trump hurts Iran’s economy by reimposing harsh sanctions. Iran, for a long time, followed the deal and hoped for a diplomatic solution. However, Tehran has now restarted nuclear activities that had been suspended.

Rare exchange of talks:

Oman’s foreign minister described the meetings as being held in a “friendly and respectful environment.” Iranian and American negotiators spoke directly for a few minutes. It marked a rare moment of personal contact. During a media briefing, when Trump was asked about the talks, he said, “I think they’re going OK. Nothing matters until you get it done.”

Economic signs of optimism:

The Iranian rial strengthened against the U.S. dollar. It indicates a small but telling sign that markets may be reacting positively to the potential for easing tensions. As per Iranian exchange rate monitoring websites, Iran’s rial improved to about 850,000 per dollar. This economic boost comes at a time when Iran is facing enormous pressure from international sanctions.

Trump’s pressure tactics and Iran’s response:

Trump wrote a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He urged Iran to return to the negotiating table. In case Iran refuses to engage, the letter also warns them of military consequences. Iranian officials have expressed strong dislike for Trump’s “maximum pressure” strategy. Despite this, Tehran agreed to the talks. Tehran is looking for a way out of the economic crisis without appearing to surrender to pressure.

Mixed reactions inside Iran:

Iran has shown mixed responses about the talks. Conservative newspaper Javan praised the U.S. for not trying to expand the scope of the discussions. Reformist publication Shargh also called the talks a “decisive turning point” in relations between Iran and the U.S. On the other hand, the hardline Kayhan newspaper expressed concern that Iran lacks a “Plan B” in case negotiations fail. However, it did appreciate that the U.S. did not raise the issue of military attacks.