Iran Agrees to Include Missiles and Terror Funding in Oman Talks
Senior Iranian officials tell press that Tehran has committed to discuss ballistic missile program and funding of regional terror proxies in upcoming talks with U.S.
In a significant diplomatic shift on the eve of high-stakes negotiations, Iran has reportedly committed to the United States that it is willing to negotiate on a broader range of issues beyond its nuclear program, including its ballistic missile project and the funding of regional terror organizations.
The report cited senior Iranian sources stating that key figures within the regime conveyed these commitments to Washington. While these officials noted they still "expect" the primary focus of the talks to remain on nuclear enrichment and sanctions, they signaled they are now prepared "to deal with" the more contentious issues of missile proliferation and the financing of regional proxies.
This apparent Iranian pivot follows a public and aggressive clash between the two sides yesterday. Tensions peaked when the United States abruptly announced it would insist on holding negotiations "on all core issues in dispute."
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that "any negotiation must lead to something meaningful," which he clarified must include the range of Iran's ballistic missiles, its sponsorship of terrorist organizations, and its treatment of its own people.
After a day of confusion where talks were nearly canceled due to disagreements over the location, both sides confirmed they will meet in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, February 6, at 10:00 am local time.
Analysts suggest that after several attempts to "flex muscles," including recent naval friction in the Persian Gulf and public dismissals of U.S. demands, the Iranian leadership has realized that the Trump administration will not accept a narrow nuclear-only framework.
The shift is likely driven by:
While the Iranian willingness to "address" missiles and terror funding represents a major concession on paper, the true test will occur tomorrow morning in Muscat. U.S. officials remain "very skeptical" of Tehran's intentions, viewing this shift as a potential delay tactic to avoid imminent military strikes. The American team, led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, is now under pressure to maintain strict red lines and ensure that any agreement involves verifiable and permanent changes to Iran’s regional and military posture.