The United States imposed fresh sanctions on five Iranian entities and one individual on Wednesday, just days before scheduled nuclear talks with Tehran in Oman, raising tensions amid renewed diplomatic overtures.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced punitive measures against the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and its subsidiary, the Iran Centrifuge Technology Company, accusing them of supporting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Also sanctioned was Majid Mosallat, head of the Atbin Ista Technical and Engineering Company, alleged to be involved in procuring foreign components for Iran’s nuclear activities.
The sanctions come two days after President Donald Trump signaled a willingness to engage in new negotiations with Iran, proposing a deal to replace the one he withdrew from during his first term. Despite this diplomatic push, Trump has reinstated his “maximum pressure” campaign, warning of military action should the talks fail.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Tuesday that a deal could be possible if Washington approaches the talks with goodwill. However, Tehran condemned the latest sanctions and threats of force, calling them contradictory to the spirit of dialogue.
Delegations from both nations are expected to meet in Oman, marking their first round of formal discussions since Trump’s renewed offer of engagement.
