Abbas Araghchi leads Iran’s nuclear talks with the US in Oman.

Tensions are high between Iran and the United States. Why? Iran’s nuclear program is advancing fast. Meanwhile, a familiar face is back to lead talks. His name is Abbas Araghchi. He’s Iran’s Foreign Minister and a seasoned diplomat. Importantly, he’s no stranger to tough negotiations. So, who is this man steering Iran’s nuclear future? Let’s dive in.

At AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW), we bring you the latest on global diplomacy. Araghchi’s role is critical now. Therefore, understanding his background helps us grasp what’s at stake.

Who Is Abbas Araghchi?

Abbas Araghchi was born in Tehran in 1962. He grew up in a wealthy family from Isfahan. As a teenager, he joined the 1979 Islamic Revolution. After that, he served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). During the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), he fought on the frontlines. Clearly, he’s loyal to Iran’s system.

Later, Araghchi entered diplomacy. He joined Iran’s foreign ministry in 1989. Since then, he’s held big roles. For example, he was ambassador to Finland (1999-2003) and Japan (2007-2011). He speaks English fluently. Plus, he’s calm and sharp in talks. His education is impressive too. He has a bachelor’s degree from Iran’s Faculty of International Relations. Also, he earned a master’s in political science and a doctorate from the University of Kent in the UK.

Interestingly, Araghchi avoids Iran’s political fights. He’s worked under reformist and hardline leaders alike. A senior Iranian official told Reuters, “He has good ties with the Supreme Leader and all factions.” Consequently, he’s trusted to handle big issues like nuclear talks.

Araghchi’s Role in the 2015 Nuclear Deal

Araghchi is famous for one thing: the 2015 nuclear deal. Officially, it’s called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). This deal was huge. It involved Iran, the US, and five other world powers. Basically, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear program. In return, sanctions were lifted.

Araghchi was a key player. He worked under Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. Western diplomats praised him. They called him “serious” and “knowledgeable.” For instance, he understood the nuclear fuel cycle inside out. As a result, the JCPOA was a success—at least for a while.

However, things changed in 2018. Then-US President Donald Trump pulled out of the deal. He slapped new sanctions on Iran. Suddenly, Iran ramped up its nuclear work. By 2025, Iran enriches uranium to 60% purity. That’s close to weapons-grade levels. Naturally, this worries the US and Israel.

Why Araghchi Is Back in 2025

Fast forward to today. Araghchi is Iran’s Foreign Minister. He started this role in August 2024 under President Masoud Pezeshkian. Pezeshkian wants to talk with the West. Therefore, he picked Araghchi to lead nuclear negotiations again.

Currently, talks are set for Oman. Oman often hosts secret US-Iran meetings. Araghchi will face Steve Witkoff, a Trump envoy. Unlike Araghchi, Witkoff isn’t a diplomat. He’s a real estate tycoon. Still, Trump trusts him. The talks are tricky. Iran wants sanctions lifted. The US wants Iran’s nuclear program stopped. Can Araghchi find a deal?

The Stakes in Oman

The Oman talks are critical. Why? Iran’s nuclear program is advancing. According to the UN, Iran has enough material for six or seven bombs if it enriches further. Meanwhile, Trump has revived his “maximum pressure” policy. He’s threatened military action if talks fail. On the other hand, Iran warns of “severe consequences” if attacked.

Araghchi has a tough job. He’s backed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Yet, he must balance Iran’s pride with practical needs. For example, Iran’s economy is struggling. The rial hit a record low recently. A deal could bring relief. However, Araghchi says the 2015 JCPOA won’t work now. Iran’s program has grown too much. Instead, he sees it as a starting point.

Timeline of Araghchi’s Career