The fourth round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States regarding Tehran's nuclear programme has started in Muscat, ISNA reported.

According to the local media the Iranian delegation comprising a team of expert-technical advisors stationed in the Omani capital to provide necessary consultations throughout the discussions, according to the Iranian foreign ministry.

Before he departed for Muscat, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview, "We had more consultations in Tehran this morning and we hope to reach a decisive point in today's negotiations."

However, he also voiced concerns regarding the signals emanating from the American side. "Unfortunately, we hear contradictory statements from them," Araghchi noted, adding, " The other side is presenting different positions inside and outside the negotiating room, which is a key obstacle in these talks."

The Iranian Foreign Minister reiterated Tehran's long-standing and principled stance on its nuclear activities.

"Having peaceful nuclear technology is one of the rights of the Iranian people that cannot be negotiated or bartered,” he stressed.

Araghchi specifically addressed the sensitive issue of uranium enrichment, calling it "one of the achievements and honours of the Iranian nation."

He highlighted the sacrifices made for this progress, stating, "A heavy price has been paid for this enrichment, … and it is definitely not negotiable, and this has been and is our clear position."

Despite this firm stance, Araghchi indicated a willingness to engage constructively. "We have always said that if there are questions, ambiguities and concerns, we are ready to build trust, we are ready to take steps to gain more trust; this has always been our logic."

He also cautioned against public pronouncements that could undermine the delicate diplomatic process.

"Negotiations should be held at the negotiating table, and their media plan is contrary to the nature of the negotiations and questions the seriousness and will of the other side," he stated.

The US top negotiator Steve Witkoff outlined a different position ahead of the Muscat talks.

In a separate interview, Witkoff asserted that "there should be no enrichment program left in Iran. Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan [facilities] must be dismantled." He further stated that a deal similar to the previous 2015 agreement was "unacceptable" and that sanctions should only be lifted if Iran's commitments are "permanent."

Witkoff stressed the high stakes of this round of negotiations, warning that if it does not yield results, "the United States will halt nuclear talks with and will have to choose another path."