WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump has indicated he would play an indirect role should further negotiations occur between the United States and Iran regarding its nuclear program, even as tensions remain high and the Biden administration continues to weigh its options. This comes after a period of stalled talks and escalating regional concerns, including a significant U.S. Military buildup in the Middle East. The potential for renewed diplomacy, however limited, is unfolding against a backdrop of increasing military posturing and heightened rhetoric from both sides.
Trump’s comments, reported by Reuters, suggest a willingness to engage – albeit from outside the formal negotiating process – if he believes it could lead to a more favorable outcome for the U.S. He reportedly believes a regime change in Iran would be “the best thing,” a sentiment echoed in recent statements as the U.S. Increases its military presence in the region. This stance reflects a continuation of the “maximum pressure” campaign he pursued during his first term, aimed at crippling Iran’s economy and forcing concessions on its nuclear ambitions.
Stalled Negotiations and Rising Tensions
Direct negotiations between the U.S. And Iran, aimed at reviving the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have been stalled since June 2022. The JCPOA, which limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, was unilaterally withdrawn from by the Trump administration in 2018. Attempts to resurrect the agreement under the Biden administration have failed to yield a breakthrough, with disagreements over the scope of sanctions relief and guarantees for Iran’s long-term commitments proving insurmountable. The current impasse has led to Iran enriching uranium to levels closer to weapons-grade, raising concerns about its nuclear capabilities.
Adding to the complexity, the U.S. Military has been bolstering its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks. The Times of Israel reported that the U.S. Is sending a second aircraft carrier strike group, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, to the region, joining the USS Gerald R. Ford. This deployment, coupled with the movement of fighter jets and other military assets, is widely seen as a signal of deterrence to Iran and a preparation for potential military action. Reuters reported that the U.S. Military is preparing for potentially weeks-long operations against Iran, though the exact nature of those operations remains unclear.
The Role of Oman and Past Negotiations
Oman has historically played a crucial role as a mediator between the U.S. And Iran, hosting several rounds of indirect talks in recent years. According to Wikipedia, the first round of high-level meetings took place in Muscat in April 2025, led by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Both sides initially described the discussions as constructive. A second round of talks was held in Rome in February 2026, but these efforts have not yet resulted in a significant breakthrough.
The negotiations have been complicated by a number of factors, including Iran’s ballistic missile program, its support for regional proxies, and its overall destabilizing activities in the Middle East. The U.S. Has repeatedly stated that it is committed to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and has vowed to hold Iran accountable for its actions. In February 2026, President Trump signed an Executive Order imposing tariffs on countries that acquire goods or services from Iran, further tightening economic pressure on the Iranian regime. The White House stated this was to protect U.S. National security, foreign policy, and economy.
Military Preparations and Potential Scenarios
The recent U.S. Military buildup has fueled speculation about potential scenarios, ranging from limited strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities to a broader military conflict. The BBC reported on the tracking of U.S. Warships and fighter jets near Iran, highlighting the increased military activity in the region. While the Biden administration has repeatedly stated that it prefers a diplomatic solution, it has also made it clear that it is prepared to use force if necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. The possibility of escalation remains a significant concern, particularly given the potential for miscalculation or unintended consequences.
Trump’s offer to be involved indirectly adds another layer of complexity to the situation. While his specific role remains undefined, his past approach to Iran suggests he would likely favor a hardline stance and demand significant concessions. Whether his involvement would facilitate or hinder a diplomatic resolution remains to be seen.
The situation remains fluid and highly sensitive. The next key development to watch will be the outcome of ongoing diplomatic efforts, as well as any further military movements or statements from the U.S. And Iran. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both sides to exercise restraint and prioritize a peaceful resolution.
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