The United States announced this afternoon that it has agreed to proceed with talks with Iran in Oman on Friday, reversing an earlier decision to cancel the discussions following a request from Arab countries.

The change came after reports that Washington had sent a firm message to Tehran rejecting Iranian demands to alter both the venue and structure of the talks. The discussions were initially set to take place Friday in Istanbul and to include representatives from additional countries. According to a senior American official, the U.S. made clear there was no flexibility. “We told them: ‘It’s either this or nothing.’ They said, ‘Okay, then nothing,'” the official said, adding, “We want to achieve a real deal quickly, or people will look for other options.”

Speaking earlier at a press conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the broader approach to the negotiations. “We do not view these meetings as a concession or legitimization. We are ready to talk to any adversary or ally of ours,” Rubio said.

Rubio also outlined what Washington believes must be addressed for the discussions to be productive. “I think for the talks to bring something meaningful, they must include several issues – including ballistic missile ranges, the nuclear program, support for terrorist organizations in the region, and their treatment of their people,” he said.

An Iranian official responded by narrowing expectations for the agenda, stating: “The talks with the U.S. in Oman will focus solely on the nuclear program. Ballistic missiles are not on the table.”

{Matzav.com}