United States President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Friday about reaching a nuclear deal with Iran, emphasizing that discussions are "coming along very well." Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump stated that Washington’s sole aim is to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon, and that a successful deal would also benefit Tehran economically by saving "billions and billions of dollars."

Ali Shamkhani, advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, noted that Trump has distanced himself from military threats, describing the ongoing negotiations as a potential "political turning point." Iranian and US delegations, led by Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff respectively, have been holding talks in Muscat, Oman.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry clarified that its missile and defense programs are not included in the nuclear discussions. Following six hours of expert-level meetings, both parties acknowledged that while significant disagreements remain, there has been positive momentum. Talks are scheduled to continue with a fourth round on May 3, according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and a senior US official both described the Muscat meetings as productive yet complex, with both sides committed to further progress. The White House thanked Oman for facilitating the negotiations.