Diplomacy may be turning a corner as Iran agrees to never stockpile enriched uranium, Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi confirmed.
The breakthrough, achieved during indirect talks with the US in Geneva, could pave the way for a comprehensive nuclear deal.
According to Oman’s top diplomat, the most significant achievement from the latest indirect talks is Iran’s commitment never to maintain nuclear material that could produce a bomb.
“This is something completely new,” Al Busaidi told CBS News, explaining that zero stockpiling of enriched uranium effectively removes the risk of Iran producing nuclear weapons.
The agreement also includes full verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), ensuring that Iran’s stockpiles remain transparent and under global scrutiny.
Degrading existing stockpiles
Al Busaidi added that Iran would reduce its current stockpiles to the lowest possible level, converting the material into irreversible fuel.
“This makes the enrichment argument less relevant because we are now talking about zero stockpiling,” he said, emphasizing the historic nature of the development.
US-Iran talks: Open to discussion
The Omani minister stressed that Iran is open to discussing all outstanding issues, including its missile program, signaling willingness to negotiate across the board.
He expressed optimism that a comprehensive deal could be finalized within a few months, but noted that some details still need ironing out.
“The big picture is that a deal is in our hands,” Al Busaidi said.
US Vice President JD Vance met with Oman’s foreign minister on Friday, highlighting Washington’s ongoing engagement in the talks.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump voiced mixed feelings about the negotiations. “We’re not exactly happy with the way they’re negotiating,” he told reporters, while also stating a preference for diplomacy over military action.
The next round of indirect talks between the US and Iran is scheduled for Monday in Vienna, Austria.
