United States President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that his administration is making significant progress in nuclear negotiations with Iran. Speaking at a press conference, Trump noted that "serious meetings" are underway and expressed optimism about reaching positive outcomes. However, he warned that "one option is not a good option" without elaborating further.

The announcement precedes a planned meeting between US and Iranian officials scheduled for Saturday, April 26. Veteran State Department diplomat Michael Anton has been appointed to lead the American negotiating team during the technical discussions in Muscat, Oman.

In an interview with Time magazine, Trump also addressed Israel’s position on Iran’s nuclear facilities, confirming that he did not prevent Israel from striking Iranian sites but made it "uncomfortable" for them to act. "I think we can make a deal without the attack. I hope we can," Trump said. He stressed that the US would lead any necessary military action should negotiations fail, emphasizing, "Iran will not have a nuclear weapon." Trump also indicated willingness to meet with Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei clarified that Iran’s missile and defense programs are not part of the ongoing technical nuclear negotiations. Baghaei dismissed Western media claims suggesting otherwise and reiterated that the discussions in Muscat strictly pertain to nuclear issues. Iranian state media reported that due to the complexity of the technical discussions, the third round of negotiations might be extended.

The negotiations, led by White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, continue in Muscat amid cautious optimism for a diplomatic breakthrough.