Iran Says US in Hurry for Nuclear Deal, After Rare Talks

Negotiators in Separate Halls Convey Their Views Through Oman Foreign Minister

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MUSCAT — The United States wants a nuclear agreement "as soon as possible," Iran said after rare talks on April 12, as US President Donald Trump threatens military action if they fail to reach a deal.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who briefly spoke face to face with Mr. Trump's special envoy, Mr. Steve Witkoff, during the indirect meeting in Oman, said talks would resume on April 19.

"The American side also said that a positive agreement was one that can be reached as soon as possible but that will not be easy and will require a willingness on both sides," Mr. Araghchi told Iranian state television.

"At today's meeting, I think we came very close to a basis for negotiation... Neither we nor the other party want fruitless negotiations, discussions for discussions' sake, time-wasting or talks that drag on forever," he added.

A statement from the White House said: "The discussions were very positive and constructive."

"Special Envoy Witkoff's direct communication today was a step forward in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome," it added.

Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi acted as intermediary in the talks in Muscat, Iran said.

The Americans had called for the meetings to be face-to-face.

However, the negotiators also spoke directly for "a few minutes," Iran's Foreign Ministry said. It said the talks were held "in a constructive and mutually respectful atmosphere."