Teheran sees opportunity and test in nuclear talks

Iran's confirmation of indirect talks with the United States on the nuclear issue in Oman on Saturday, following contrasting claims of "direct talks" by the White House, is being seen by Teheran as both an "opportunity" as well as a "test", after threats of bombings by Washington.

"Iran and the United States will meet in Oman on Saturday for indirect high-level talks," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in a post on X early on Tuesday. "It is as much an opportunity as it is a test. The ball is in America's court," he said.

On Monday, US President Donald Trump, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, made a surprise announcement: "We're having direct talks with Iran," indicating a "very big meeting" to involve "very high-level" officials.