Efforts to revive diplomatic negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program have hit a major setback, as a planned sixth round of talks between Iran and the United States, scheduled for this weekend in Muscat, Oman, has been officially cancelled.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi announced the development on Saturday via a post on X, stating, “The Iran-US talks scheduled to be held in Muscat this Sunday will not now take place.” He reaffirmed Oman’s belief in peaceful resolution, adding, “Diplomacy and dialogue remain the only pathway to lasting peace.”
The abrupt cancellation comes as Iran and Israel engage in their most intense military confrontation yet, marked by heavy exchanges of strikes. Israel launched a significant wave of attacks on Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure on Friday, casting doubt over the viability of continued diplomatic dialogue.
Tensions around Iran’s uranium enrichment program have remained a central obstacle in the negotiations, which began in April. The United States, Israel, and several Western nations have repeatedly accused Tehran of pursuing a nuclear weapon — a claim Iran continues to firmly reject.
A US official, speaking anonymously to AFP, expressed regret over the cancellation but held out hope: “While there will be no meeting Sunday, we remain committed to talks and hope the Iranians will come to the table soon.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the idea of continuing dialogue under current conditions, calling it “meaningless” to negotiate with a country it accuses of backing “the aggressor” Israel.
The developments further complicate the already fragile efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions through peaceful means.
What you should know
The cancellation of US-Iran nuclear talks signals heightened instability as Israel and Iran engage in open conflict. With diplomacy paused and both sides hardening their positions, the road to de-escalation remains uncertain.
