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The United States and Iran wrapped up a second round of indirect nuclear talks in Rome, with both sides describing the discussions as productive and moving forward.
Some shit you should know before you read: If you’re unaware, the United States recently took a different approach to dealing with Iran’s nuclear program, opting for diplomacy over the earlier threats of military action. President Trump, who has received some pressure from hawks in his administration to bomb Iran’s nuclear facilities, decided to delay any strike and give talks a chance. That decision came after Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard reportedly warned that a military strike could spiral into a wider regional war, possibly dragging the US into a prolonged and unpredictable conflict. While some have welcomed this diplomatic pivot, Israel is not on board, with officials believing that Iran is buying time and using negotiations to quietly advance its nuclear program.
What’s going on now: The talks in Rome, again mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, marked the second time this month that US and Iranian officials engaged in indirect negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. The discussions took place at the Omani Embassy in Rome, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff in separate rooms while al-Busaidi carried messages between them. Despite not meeting face-to-face, both sides described the talks as positive. “We negotiated for nearly four hours today,” Araghchi told Iranian state television. “We succeeded to reach a better agreement this time about principles and targets.”
What Iran wants: Tehran’s top priority is the complete lifting of US sanctions, which have crippled their economy. Iranian leaders also say their nuclear program is only for civilian use, and they’ve refused to dismantle their uranium enrichment infrastructure or hold talks related to their ballistic missile program.
What the US wants: Washington is pressing Iran to stop enriching uranium to near weapons-grade levels and to implement safeguards to prevent a breakout. While President Trump says he favors diplomacy, he’s made clear that military options remain on the table. “I’m for stopping Iran, very simply, from having a nuclear weapon. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. I want Iran to be great and prosperous and terrific.”
This all comes as Israeli officials voice growing concern that renewed talks could legitimize Iran’s enrichment program. A senior Israeli official, speaking anonymously, told local media: “Iran’s strategy is clear: delay, deceive, and continue enriching. Dialogue gives them cover.” That skepticism has revived speculation that Israel may take unilateral military action. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly told US counterparts that any agreement that doesn’t fully dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would be unacceptable to Israel.
