Iran has officially confirmed that new nuclear talks with the United States will take place in Rome this Saturday. The shift marks a reversal from earlier plans to return to Oman as the host nation. Although the location has changed, Oman will still serve as mediator between the long-standing rivals. The announcement comes amid rising tensions over uranium enrichment and fresh changes in Iran’s nuclear negotiation team.
Rome Confirmed as New Venue for Iran-U.S. Talks
After days of back-and-forth, Iran has announced that Rome will host the next round of nuclear talks with the United States. Tehran had initially named Rome as the venue but later suggested a return to Oman. By midweek, however, Iranian state media confirmed the Italian capital as the final location for Saturday’s meeting.
Oman, which mediated earlier sessions held in Muscat, will again act as the go-between in Rome. Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi played a central role in last weekend’s discussions and is expected to do the same in the upcoming round.
Nearly Five Decades of Diplomatic Strain
Iran and the United States enter these talks with almost 50 years of distrust behind them. The historic conflict dates back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. The latest round of talks carries added weight due to threats and warnings issued by both sides.
Former President Donald Trump, whose influence still shapes U.S. policy, has repeatedly threatened military action if Iran fails to curb its nuclear ambitions. In response, Iranian officials have hinted they may push their uranium stockpile to weapons-grade levels if pressured.
Key Resignation Signals Political Shift in Tehran
On Wednesday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accepted the resignation of Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif, a seasoned diplomat known for negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal. Zarif had recently backed Pezeshkian’s presidential campaign but drew sharp criticism from conservative voices in government.
In a statement, the presidency explained that Zarif’s policy positions no longer match the country’s current strategic direction. His departure signals a shift in Iran’s approach to foreign policy and nuclear negotiations.
New Vice President Brings Legal Background
Replacing Zarif is Mohsen Ismaili, a 59-year-old legal expert known for his moderate stance. Ismaili’s appointment is seen as a move toward more measured diplomacy. His experience in constitutional law may help him navigate the complex demands of nuclear negotiations, while also aligning with Pezeshkian’s vision for balanced foreign policy.
IAEA Director Arrives in Tehran for Crucial Meetings
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), arrived in Tehran this week. Grossi is scheduled to meet with President Pezeshkian and senior officials on Thursday morning. His visit comes at a crucial moment, with the international community watching Iran’s next steps closely.
The IAEA plays a key role in monitoring Iran’s nuclear activity. Grossi’s presence signals a continuing effort to maintain dialogue and oversight amid rising tensions.
Uranium Enrichment Nears Weapons Grade
Since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has removed key limits on its nuclear program. It is now enriching uranium up to 60% purity—dangerously close to the 90% level needed for nuclear weapons.
This dramatic expansion has alarmed both Western nations and regional neighbors. Iran insists its program is for peaceful purposes, but the scale and pace of enrichment continue to raise concerns.
Dispute Over Enrichment Rights Heats Up
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has pushed back against pressure from the United States. He warned that mixed messages from Washington are harming trust. Araghchi reiterated that Iran is willing to negotiate but will not give up its right to enrich uranium.
He also emphasized that any future deal must respect Iran’s sovereignty and scientific development goals.
U.S. Envoy Calls for Stronger Agreement
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff added to the tension with recent remarks suggesting Iran could return to the 2015-level enrichment cap of 3.67%. After criticism, he clarified that only a new “Trump deal” would meet U.S. expectations.
Witkoff called for Iran to fully end both enrichment and any alleged weaponization activities. He said a durable agreement must include strict verification and long-term compliance.
The Rome meeting offers a rare chance for Iran and the U.S. to reset stalled negotiations. However, the growing mistrust, leadership changes, and advanced uranium enrichment present steep challenges. As talks proceed, both sides must balance domestic pressures with international demands for peace and stability.