Rome, 23 May 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The negotiations between Washington and Tehran over Iran's controversial nuclear programme were set to enter a decisive phase on Friday with a meeting in the Italian capital.

For the fifth round of talks, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected in Rome.

The Gulf state of Oman is mediating between the two countries.

The United States is demanding that the Iranian government completely halt uranium enrichment, which Washington views as a necessary measure to permanently prevent the development of nuclear weapons.

Tehran rejects this demand but has shown willingness to restrict the nuclear programme again and allow stricter controls.

Both sides had initially expressed optimism at the start of the talks. However, after the recent meeting in the Omani capital, Muscat, significant differences emerged over the central issue of uranium enrichment.

Experts say the negotiations are now in a critical phase.

MIA file photo