The U.S. State Department pushed back against reports claiming that a planned round of nuclear negotiations with Iran had been canceled, stating that the United States was never confirmed to attend a fourth round of talks.
During a press briefing on Thursday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce clarified that, contrary to media speculation, no meeting in Rome or elsewhere had been formally scheduled for this weekend.
“There was no confirmed participation by the United States in a fourth round of talks with Iran,” Bruce said. “Suggestions that such a meeting was canceled are inaccurate.”
Reports earlier in the week had cited unnamed diplomatic sources claiming that a U.S.-Iran meeting in Rome had been abruptly called off, prompting fresh concerns about the status of ongoing nuclear negotiations.
Talks Still Expected
While denying any cancellation, Bruce confirmed that another round of talks is expected “in the near future,” though she did not offer specific dates or locations. The discussions are part of a broader diplomatic effort to revive or reshape the framework of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the U.S. withdrew from in 2018 under then-President Trump.
“We remain committed to pursuing diplomacy, but it must be constructive and based on real progress,” Bruce added.
Background and Stakes
The U.S. and Iran have engaged in indirect negotiations in recent months, often through European intermediaries, to address concerns over uranium enrichment, regional security, and sanctions relief. However, progress has been slow and often overshadowed by rising regional tensions, particularly following recent proxy clashes and Iran’s expanding nuclear program.
Analysts say that while formal talks may not be on the immediate horizon, backchannel diplomacy is likely continuing behind the scenes.
“The U.S. wants to keep the door open but avoid raising expectations prematurely,” said Dr. Leila Sadri, a non-proliferation expert at Georgetown University. “That’s why you’re seeing such careful language from the State Department.”
Next Steps Unclear
The timeline and format of any future negotiations remain uncertain, and it’s unclear whether they will involve direct U.S.-Iran engagement or continue through intermediaries. European Union and Gulf state diplomats are reportedly working to create the conditions for a more stable negotiating platform.
