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Iran Prefers Omani Mediation for Negotiations with Washington
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Iranian diplomatic maneuvering in rejecting direct negotiations while accepting Omani mediation reflects an attempt to save face domestically while keeping international dialogue channels open amid in
A senior Iranian official revealed instructions from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to place the armed forces on maximum alert, amid escalating verbal tension between Tehran and Washington, despite the Iranian side confirming its readiness for indirect negotiations with the US administration. This step reflects the state of anticipation and caution dominating the Iranian position amid increasing threats from the American side.
The Iranian official warned today, Sunday, that any attack on his country "would have dire consequences," according to Reuters. These statements come as a direct response to recent American threats, increasing tension between the two countries.
He explained that the Iranian authorities, who previously stated their refusal to hold direct talks with Washington regarding the nuclear agreement, are seeking to enter into dialogue through the Sultanate of Oman as a mediator. Omani mediation represents a middle ground for the Iranian side, which is trying to balance between domestic policy requirements and international pressures.
He added that "indirect negotiations provide an opportunity to assess the seriousness of America's intentions regarding a political solution to the Iranian issue." These statements indicate a kind of Iranian caution and suspicion toward American proposals, with a desire to test Washington's seriousness.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, for his part, emphasized earlier today the rejection of direct negotiations with the United States, but kept the field open for holding indirect talks about his country's nuclear program. The positions of Iranian officials reflect a consistent strategy that combines rejecting direct negotiation and accepting mediation.
The Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, took the same approach, confirming that his country is not seeking war. This statement shows an Iranian attempt to calm tensions while maintaining a firm stance toward any potential threats.
At the same time, he indicated that Tehran would decisively confront any aggression targeting its territory, sovereignty, or security. These warnings represent a clear message to the US administration that Iran is ready to respond to any military escalation.
Those statements came after Trump announced last month that he sent a message to Khamenei on March 5, aiming to negotiate a new nuclear deal, giving Tehran a two-month deadline, and emphasizing his preference for dialogue over confrontation.
These correspondences reveal behind-the-scenes diplomatic attempts despite hardline public statements from both sides. The Iranian authorities responded to the mentioned message on the 30th of last month, explaining their readiness for indirect dialogue.
The option of indirect diplomacy remains Tehran's preferred path to exit the current crisis while maintaining its principled positions. Trump returned to threaten military confrontation if Iran rejected negotiations, while Khamenei warned that his country would deliver a painful blow to anyone who attacks it.
Fears of escalation possibilities increase in light of these mutual threats, making the role of Omani mediation extremely important in the coming period.
