United States President Donald Trump has appointed veteran State Department official Michael Anton to head the U.S. delegation in technical negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. The discussions aim to hammer out detailed terms that would restrict Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for lifting certain economic sanctions.

Anton, currently serving as the director of policy planning at the State Department, will lead a team of around a dozen experts drawn from various government agencies. The talks are scheduled to begin this weekend and will serve as a precursor to a more formal meeting next week in Rome between U.S. special delegate Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Anton previously participated in the last round of Rome discussions alongside Witkoff.

Speaking at a press conference, President Trump said the administration was doing “very well” with respect to the Iran talks. “We are doing very well regarding Iran,” Trump noted, referencing what he described as “serious meetings” and expressing hope for positive developments. However, he added a note of caution, stating, “One option is not a good option,” though he did not elaborate further.

The appointment of Anton underscores the administration’s intent to move swiftly toward a diplomatic resolution while maintaining pressure on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. His experience and long-standing role in strategic planning are seen as assets in navigating the complex technical dimensions of the negotiations.

As the weekend discussions get underway, observers are watching closely for signals of compromise or escalation. The talks represent one of the most critical junctures in recent U.S.-Iran relations, and the outcome may have lasting implications for regional stability and global non-proliferation efforts.