Iran, US to resume nuclear talks on Sunday after postponement

Iran has agreed to hold a fourth round of nuclear talks with the United States on Sunday in Oman, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Friday, adding that the negotiations were advancing.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who withdrew Washington from a 2015 deal between Tehran and world powers meant to curb its nuclear activity, has threatened to bomb Iran if no new deal is reached to resolve the long unresolved dispute.

Western countries say Iran's nuclear programme, which Tehran accelerated after the U.S. walkout from the now moribund 2015 accord, is geared toward producing weapons, whereas Iran insists it is purely for civilian purposes.

"The negotiations are moving forward, and naturally, the further we go, the more consultations and reviews are needed," Araqchi said in remarks carried by Iranian state media.

"The delegations require more time to examine the issues that are raised. But what is important is that we are on a forward-moving path and gradually entering into the details."

The fourth round of indirect negotiations, initially scheduled for May 3 in Rome, was postponed, with mediator Oman citing "logistical reasons".

Araqchi said his planned visit to Qatar and Saudi Arabia on Saturday was in line with "continuous consultations" with neighbouring countries to "address their concerns and mutual interests" about the nuclear issue.