Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced U.S. interference in the Middle East during a conversation with Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi on Saturday [1, 2].

This exchange highlights the ongoing tension between Tehran and Washington, specifically as Oman continues to serve as a critical diplomatic bridge for indirect negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program [1, 2].

Reports on the nature of the interaction vary between sources. One report said that Araghchi met with Al Busaidi [1], while another indicated the discussion took place during a phone conversation [2]. Despite the difference in medium, the core message remained a critique of what Araghchi described as the destructive interference of the U.S. in regional affairs [1, 2].

The conversation occurred amid a broader effort to manage regional instability. Oman has historically acted as a neutral mediator, facilitating communication between nations that lack formal diplomatic ties, a role that remains essential for the progress of indirect nuclear talks [1, 2].

Araghchi used the dialogue to reiterate Iran's position on sovereignty and regional security. The Iranian minister focused on the negative impact of U.S. policies on the stability of the Middle East [1, 2].

Neither the Iranian nor the Omani government has released a full transcript of the discussion. However, the timing of the conversation suggests a continued reliance on Muscat to relay messages to Western powers [1, 2].

“Araghchi denounced the US’s “destructive interference””

The reliance on Oman as a mediator underscores the lack of direct diplomatic channels between Iran and the U.S. By using the Omani counterpart to voice grievances, Iran signals its dissatisfaction with U.S. regional policy while keeping the door open for the indirect nuclear negotiations that are vital for preventing further escalation in the Middle East.