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3. US-Iran Talks Expected in Oman, but Scope Under Discussion: Arab Diplomat

Talks between the United States and Iran are expected to take place in Oman, but the scope of the discussions still needs to be agreed, an Arab diplomat told AFP on Wednesday.

"A meeting is requested in Oman by the Iranians, and the Americans have approved the location, but the parameters of discussions are still being worked on," the diplomat said on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks, adding the situation remained fluid.

There was no immediate confirmation from the US and Iran.

The United States threatened military action against Iran over its deadly crackdown on recent protests, and has continued to warn of consequences if Tehran fails to agree to a deal.

Another source in the region with knowledge of the negotiations told AFP that teams from Washington and Tehran had previously been planning to meet in Istanbul "to address the nuclear file, missile issues and groups backed by Iran, with the participation of other countries".

"Iran is now seeking to limit the agenda solely to the nuclear issue, and wants to hold talks exclusively with the United States," they said.

"This is a formula that the United States has rejected until now," the source continued, adding that "Iran is not proposing that the meeting be moved to Oman. It is calling for an entirely new meeting from the outset."

The US opposes Iran's nuclear programme, which it maintains is a precursor to acquiring nuclear weapons, while Tehran insists it is for civilian purposes.

Washington also wants to curtail Iran's support for proxy forces in the Middle East and to cut its vast arsenal of ballistic missiles.

Iran has repeatedly stressed that any talks should focus solely on the nuclear issue and not its missile programme or defense capabilities.

AFP