Iran engages in indirect talks with US via Oman

Muscat: Iran has confirmed that it is maintaining indirect negotiations with the United States through the Sultanate of Oman, focusing on its nuclear deal and the potential for a prisoner swap.

Western powers have closely monitored Iran's nuclear program, leading to crippling economic sanctions.

Both Iran and the US have recently refuted media reports suggesting they were nearing an interim deal to replace the 2015 accord.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanani, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Omani officials in facilitating the talks.

Kanani emphasized that the negotiations were not conducted in secret during his weekly press conference.

FM indicated that a prisoner swap could be finalized in the near future, but he emphasized that the US must demonstrate the same level of seriousness as Iran.

Several Iranian Americans, including businessman Siamak Namazi, currently remain in Iranian custody on charges of espionage.

Iran has recently released six European citizens and regained custody of Iranian diplomat Assadollah Assadi, who had been imprisoned in Belgium on terrorism charges.

Kanani also refuted allegations that Iran had supplied Russia with equipment for establishing a drone factory, a claim made by White House national security spokesman John Kirby.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reiterated on Sunday that the country has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons.

He stated that deals could be reached as long as they do not alter the existing infrastructure of Iran's nuclear industry.