US-Iran nuclear talks delayed amid tensions over sanctions

A planned fourth round of US-Iran nuclear talks scheduled for Saturday postponed, with Iran citing US sanctions and approach as key factors. The fourth round of nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran, originally slated for Saturday in Rome, has been delayed indefinitely, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Thursday. The official said a new date will be determined based on “the US approach.” “U.S. sanctions on Iran during the nuclear talks are not helping the sides to resolve the nuclear dispute through diplomacy,” the official stated, signaling frustration with ongoing pressure from Washington.

Oman, which served as the mediator in the US-Iran discussions, attributed the delay to “logistical reasons” and confirmed that the May 3 meeting would be rescheduled. A separate source familiar with the diplomatic developments noted that the US had not confirmed its in the Rome session. According to the source, the timing and location for the next round of talks remain undecided but are expected to be finalized soon.

Meanwhile, Iran leveled fresh accusations against the United States, condemning what it described as “contradictory behaviour and provocative statements” following new American sanctions and warnings regarding Iran’s backing of Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Despite rising tensions, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told state media that Tehran remains committed to negotiations, saying it will engage “seriously and resolutely” in talks aimed at tangible outcomes. (Read more)