Amwaj:

The story: Iran and the US have concluded a third round of indirect negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program. The two sides will gather in Europe as the talks enter a crucial stage where details can make or break a deal. This comes as a deadly explosion in the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas has raised questions over whether it was an accident—or a covert Israeli operation intended to derail the negotiations.

The nuclear talks: After talks in Oman on Apr. 26, both sides agreed to tentatively reconvene on May 3. A senior Iranian political source told Amwaj.media that the next round will be held in Europe but still mediated by Oman.

The talks in Muscat lasted over six hours and involved political-level talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff. In parallel, there was also expert-level dialogue for the first time, marking an important step towards discussions on technical matters relevant to nonproliferation and sanctions lifting.

Araghchi characterized the talks as “very serious and work-focused.” The lead negotiator acknowledged that while progress had been made, “Differences still exist both on major issues and on the details.”

“I am satisfied with the process and pace of the negotiations,” Araghchi said. “There is seriousness and determination. But can an agreement be reached? I am hopeful, but very cautiously so.”

An unnamed US official confirmed to Axios that “further progress was made” while noting that “there is still much to do.”

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