Iran and U.S. Agree to Hold Nuclear Talks Friday in Oman as Trump Delivers Blunt Warning to Khamenei

Iran and the United States confirmed they will hold nuclear talks on Friday in Oman amid high tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program and the aftermath of a severe crackdown on protests. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying he should be “very worried” as diplomacy and military pressure both loom.

By David Thompson – News Reporter

Last Updated: Feb. 5, 2026

Talks Set to Resume in Oman

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that high‑level nuclear talks between Iran and the United States will take place Friday in Muscat, Oman, marking a key diplomatic engagement aimed at addressing longstanding concerns over Tehran’s nuclear activities. The decision followed uncertainty earlier in the week about the talks’ format and venue, with Iran rejecting a broader regional meeting proposed by Turkey and instead insisting on direct negotiations with Washington. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Trump’s Stern Warning to Khamenei

Ahead of the talks, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a forceful warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying in an NBC News interview that “he should be very worried.” Trump’s comments underscored escalating tensions as the United States pushes Tehran to curtail its nuclear program. The warning comes amid heightened U.S. military presence in the region and concerns over Iran’s response to internal protests and its broader foreign policy actions. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Differences Over Agenda and Scope

While both sides agreed to meet, significant differences persist over what the discussions should entail. Tehran has emphasized a narrow focus on nuclear issues and resisted including topics such as ballistic missiles or regional influence, which the U.S. hopes to address. Iranian leaders have also been firm about maintaining certain elements of their nuclear program, even as they signal a willingness to pursue “fair and equitable” negotiations under Supreme Leader Khamenei’s oversight. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Regional Diplomacy and Mediation Efforts

Oman has played a long‑standing role as a mediator between Washington and Tehran, providing neutral ground for dialogue. Several Arab and Muslim leaders reportedly urged the U.S. not to abandon the talks despite disagreements over format and agenda, reflecting wider regional interest in containing escalation. Turkey had initially been floated as a possible host but ultimately did not serve as the venue after Iran’s insistence on a more limited, bilateral setting. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Background: Tensions and Crackdowns

The talks come amid broader strains in U.S.‑Iran relations, including Iran’s deadly crackdown on nationwide protests that drew global condemnation and contributed to heightened U.S. pressure. The nuclear issue has been a central source of conflict for decades, with past negotiations breaking down in mid‑2025 following military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Diplomats see the upcoming talks in Oman as an important, though uncertain, attempt to revive some form of diplomatic engagement. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}