US-Iran Nuclear Talks Show Progress, Deal Within Reach, Says Omani Mediator

Negotiations between the United States and Iran regarding Iran’s nuclear program are progressing, with a potential deal “within our reach,” according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, a key mediator in the talks. The assessment comes as discussions continue amid concerns about escalating tensions in the region and Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

Key Breakthrough: Preventing Nuclear Weaponization

A significant breakthrough has been achieved in the negotiations, focusing on preventing Iran from ever possessing the capability to create a nuclear weapon. According to Al Busaidi, Iran has agreed to forgo stockpiling nuclear material that could be used for bomb-making. This represents a departure from previous agreements and addresses a key concern of the United States and its allies.

“The single most important achievement, I believe, is the agreement that Iran will never, ever have a nuclear material that will create a bomb,” Al Busaidi stated in an interview on CBS’s Face the Nation. “This is something that is not in the old deal that was negotiated during President Obama’s time. This is something completely new.”

Stockpile Management and Verification

Under the proposed agreement, Iran’s existing stockpiles of enriched uranium would be down-blended to a natural level and converted into fuel, rendering it irreversible for weapons production. Full and comprehensive verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would be a crucial component of the deal, with potential access for U.S. Inspectors as well, should the agreement be respected.

Commitment to Diplomacy

Al Busaidi emphasized the importance of continuing diplomatic efforts, stating, “I don’t think any alternative to diplomacy is going to solve this problem.” He urged all parties to allow negotiations the “space” they demand to succeed, expressing confidence that a comprehensive agreement is achievable.

Next Steps and Timeline

Technical talks are scheduled to accept place in Vienna on Monday, February 2, 2026, with further negotiations at the level of negotiators expected within a week. Al Busaidi indicated that a deal could be finalized within three months, including the implementation of stockpile management and verification measures.

Ballistic Missile Discussions

While the primary focus of the current negotiations is the nuclear program, Iran has indicated a willingness to discuss other security concerns, including its ballistic missile program, within the context of a broader regional dialogue with its neighbors.

Current Status of Enrichment

As of February 28, 2026, Iran is not currently enriching nuclear material, with the exception of activity at the Tehran research reactor, which produces isotopes for medical purposes. CBS News reports that the IAEA has confirmed this.

Concerns About Regional Stability

Al Busaidi expressed concern about the potential for military action, particularly a strike by Israel, which could derail the diplomatic process. He reiterated that diplomacy is the only viable path to resolving the issue and preventing further escalation.

“Well, diplomacy can reach a deal. I don’t think any other acts can solve this problem, really,” Al Busaidi said.

CNBC reported that the latest round of talks was described as “the most intense so far.”