Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi is preparing for a visit to Tehran, with Saturday (Jan. 10) seen as the most likely date though the schedule has not yet been finalized, an informed source told Tasnim.
The source, however, declined to confirm whether al-Busaidi would be carrying a message from Washington.
Oman has traditionally played a mediating role between Iran and the United States. Talks between Tehran and Washington early last year were cut short following Israel’s surprise attack and the outbreak of a 12-day war, leaving little prospect for their resumption.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters on Wednesday that current circumstances are not suitable for negotiations with the US due to its policies, though he stressed that Iran has “never abandoned the negotiating table” and remains ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests.
He added that efforts to lift sanctions continue and will be pursued “with dignity and honor” whenever the opportunity arises.
The developments come as Israel Hayom reported that US President Donald Trump has rejected a proposal from special envoy Steve Witkoff to restart talks with Iran through Saudi and Omani mediation, opting instead for a “proactive approach” favoring economic and military pressure over renewed dialogue.
Araghchi also dismissed Trump’s recent comments supporting Iranian protesters, saying “domestic issues are solely for the Iranian people to decide.”
Trump has accused Iranian authorities of killing demonstrators and warned of US action if such crackdowns occur during ongoing economic protests. Iranian officials have condemned his remarks as interference in internal affairs and cautioned Washington against jeopardizing its regional interests.
