Trump Signals Optimism After Indirect Nuclear Talks With Iran in Oman
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism following indirect nuclear negotiations with Iran held in Oman, describing the talks as “very good” and asserting that Iran “wants to make a deal very badly.” Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on February 7, 2026, Trump highlighted the progress made during the diplomatic engagement, which was mediated by Oman and involved indirect communication between U.S. and Iranian officials.
“Iran looks like it wants to make a deal very badly. We’ll have to see what that deal is,” Trump said. “Last time they decided maybe not to do it, but I think they probably feel differently.” The president’s remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and ongoing international concern over Iran’s nuclear program.
The talks in Oman represent a continuation of efforts to revive and possibly expand upon the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which had previously sought to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief. While the Trump administration had withdrawn from the JCPOA in 2018, citing its shortcomings, this recent round of discussions signals a potential thaw in relations.
Trump also referenced the deployment of a “big Armada” toward Iran, underscoring the administration’s readiness to apply military pressure if diplomatic efforts fail. However, he suggested some flexibility regarding the timeline for reaching an agreement, stating, “It can be reached. Well, we have to get in position. We have plenty of time.”
The U.S. Department of State has maintained that diplomatic channels remain open and that any agreement must ensure Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful. The State Department continues to coordinate with international partners to monitor developments.
Oman’s role as mediator is significant, given its longstanding neutral stance and ability to facilitate discreet dialogue between the two adversaries. The Gulf nation has previously served as a venue for backchannel discussions, helping to bridge gaps where direct talks have stalled.
Meanwhile, the Department of Defense continues to monitor regional security dynamics closely. The presence of U.S. naval forces in the Persian Gulf aims to deter aggression and protect vital shipping lanes, which are critical to global energy markets.
As the talks progress, the Biden administration’s approach to Iran remains under scrutiny, with lawmakers and analysts weighing the potential benefits and risks of re-engagement. The U.S. Congress has debated sanctions and oversight measures to ensure any deal aligns with American security interests.
Experts caution that while the expressed willingness of Iran to negotiate is a positive sign, significant hurdles remain. Verification mechanisms, the scope of nuclear restrictions, and regional security concerns will likely dominate future discussions.
For now, the diplomatic efforts in Oman offer a glimmer of hope for a resolution to one of the most intractable foreign policy challenges facing the United States. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether these indirect talks can pave the way for a comprehensive agreement that addresses both nuclear nonproliferation and regional stability.
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