DUBAI — Iranian and U.S. negotiators will resume nuclear talks on Sunday in Muscat, Oman, amid ongoing tensions and clashing demands. The meeting, mediated by Oman, marks the fourth round of discussions aimed at reviving diplomacy and avoiding military escalation ahead of President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East tour.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff insists Iran must halt all uranium enrichment and dismantle key nuclear sites, while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi firmly rejects any compromise on Tehran’s nuclear rights. Iran says it's open to curbing some activities in exchange for sanctions relief, but won’t abandon enrichment or its stockpile.

Both sides accuse the other of taking hardline public stances that hinder progress, and Iran has ruled out talks on its missile program or any agreement without guarantees against another U.S. withdrawal.

Tensions remain high since Trump exited the 2015 nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions, prompting Iran to ramp up uranium enrichment close to weapons-grade levels.