• Trump confirms Iran has expressed willingness to negotiate, though key details remain unresolved.
  • Oil prices seesaw as markets weigh diplomatic signals against the possibility of renewed tensions.
  • Indirect talks through third-party mediators continue, but no breakthrough on nuclear limits or sanctions relief is imminent.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Iran “wants to negotiate,” adding “let’s see what happens,” in a statement that underscored the fragile state of diplomacy between the two nations. Speaking to reporters, Trump declined to provide specifics but hinted at progress through backchannel discussions, according to people familiar with the matter.

The comments come amid a flurry of indirect talks mediated by Oman and Qatar, with both sides testing the waters for a potential return to negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities. Tehran has signaled openness to a framework that includes verifiable limits on uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief, but insists on guarantees against further U.S. pressure.

“The Iranians are serious about talking, but the gap remains wide,” a senior administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official noted that Washington continues to demand a rollback of Iran’s missile program and an end to support for proxies in the region—conditions Tehran has so far rejected.

Energy markets have reacted cautiously to the news. Brent crude futures fluctuated between $78 and $82 per barrel this week, reflecting uncertainty over whether diplomatic progress might ease supply risks. Analysts say a stable deal could unlock Iranian oil exports, currently constrained by sanctions, but anything short of a verifiable agreement will keep buyers wary.

“The market is pricing in a low probability of a quick fix,” said Amrita Sen, founder of Energy Aspects. “Any real relief would require concrete steps, not just positive rhetoric.”

Negotiations are expected to resume in the coming weeks, with both sides seeking interim confidence-building measures. Without a deal, the standoff risks escalating into deeper confrontation, potentially disrupting global energy flows and regional stability.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the number of mediation channels. Talks are primarily conducted through Oman and Qatar.