On Saturday, preliminary “constructive” nuclear talks took place between U.S. and Iranian officials in Oman.

Qatar has welcomed the recent nuclear talks between Iran and the United States, describing them as “positive and constructive.” The negotiations, held on Saturday and facilitated by Oman, marked a renewed attempt to ease tensions between the long-standing political rivals.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Doha praised Muscat’s diplomatic efforts, highlighting Oman’s “key role” as an intermediary between Tehran and Washington.

Qatar reaffirmed its support for diplomacy as the preferred means of resolving disputes, stressing the importance of dialogue in addressing regional and international challenges. The ministry underscored the need to promote “security, peace, stability, and development” across the Middle East and beyond.

Following the talks, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media that the discussions had brought Iran and the U.S. “close to a basis for negotiations.”

“If we can conclude this basis next week, we’ll have gone a long way and will be able to start real discussions based on that,” Araghchi said, describing the atmosphere as “productive, calm, and positive.” He added, “Iran and the U.S. side want an agreement in the short term. We do not want talks for [the sake of] talks.”

Both sides have agreed to reconvene on April 19 to continue negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme.

Representing the U.S. were Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Ambassador to Oman Ana Escrogima, while the Sultanate’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr al-Busaidi, facilitated the discussions.

The talks come amid renewed efforts to revive direct dialogue after years of escalating tensions. Former President Donald Trump’s administration had withdrawn from the 2015 nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran. Trump has recently warned that Iran could face military consequences if a new agreement is not reached.

In a statement issued after the talks, the White House acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand but welcomed the development. “The issues are very complicated, and Special Envoy Witkoff’s direct communication today was a step forward in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome,” it said.

The last known direct negotiations between Iran and the U.S. took place during the administration of President Barack Obama.

Qatar has played an increasingly active role as a mediator between Iran and the United States, advocating for a return to the 2015 nuclear deal and helping to facilitate backchannel diplomacy in recent years.