Iran, US make limited progress in nuclear talks in Rome

Hind Al Soulia - Riyadh - ROME — Iran and the United States made “some but not conclusive progress” in the fifth round of nuclear negotiations held in Rome on Friday, as the two sides continue to struggle over core issues such as uranium enrichment and regional security threats.

Omani mediator Badr al-Busaidi, who facilitated the closed-door meeting at the Omani Embassy in Rome, said both sides remain engaged but far from reaching a deal.

“We hope to clarify the remaining issues in the coming days, to allow us to proceed towards the common goal of reaching a sustainable and honourable agreement,” he wrote on X.

The talks follow months of heightened pressure on Iran over its rapidly advancing nuclear program, which Western intelligence agencies now estimate could produce enough weapons-grade uranium for a nuclear device in under a week — though building a functioning bomb would likely take several months.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state television that while the session was productive, the negotiations are too complex for quick resolution.

“I am hopeful that in the next one or two rounds — especially given the better understanding of the Islamic Republic’s positions — we can reach solutions that allow the talks to progress,” he said.

US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and State Department policy planning director Michael Anton represented Washington at the Rome meeting.

A senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, called the talks “constructive” but acknowledged significant gaps remain.

At the heart of the impasse is Iran’s insistence on continuing domestic uranium enrichment, a stance the US opposes.

Initially open to limited enrichment up to 3.67%, the U.S. has hardened its position in recent rounds, pushing for a complete halt.

One compromise under discussion involves creating a regional uranium supply consortium — backed by the US and neighboring states — to provide Iran with low-enriched uranium for peaceful purposes, while limiting domestic enrichment.

Iran, however, remains firm in its demand to maintain control over its fuel cycle within its borders.

Meanwhile, Israeli threats to unilaterally strike Iran’s nuclear facilities have escalated tensions.

On Thursday, Araghchi warned that Iran would take “special measures” to defend its installations, and accused Washington of complicity if such an attack occurs.

That same day, Iranian students formed a human chain around the Fordo enrichment site, a fortified facility buried deep within a mountain.

Despite tough rhetoric, Iran faces mounting internal and external pressure. Economic unrest continues to simmer, fueled by inflation, a volatile currency, and speculation over increases in subsidized fuel prices.

Iran’s rial fell to more than 1 million per US dollar in April, though it has rebounded slightly amid renewed diplomatic engagement.

Iran's regional clout has also weakened. Its "Axis of Resistance" network has suffered heavy blows during Israel’s war with Hamas, and the collapse of Bashar Assad’s government following a December rebel offensive further isolated Tehran diplomatically.

While President Donald Trump has threatened airstrikes if no deal is reached, his administration has continued to impose new sanctions, including a ban this week on the sale of sodium perchlorate to Iran.

The chemical, imported via China through Shahid Rajaei port, was linked to a massive explosion in April that killed dozens and injured more than 1,000 people — an incident still under investigation. — Agencies