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US-Iran Indirect Nuclear Talks in Oman: Controversy Over CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper's Presence
US and Iran held indirect nuclear talks in Oman mediated by Omani officials. Reports emerged that US CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper attended, prompting Iranian criticism as a violation of their law designating US troops as terrorists.
Why It Matters
The inclusion of a top US military figure signals potential broadening of talks beyond nuclear issues to missiles and proxies, amid heightened tensions with US military buildup and sanctions.
Timeline
8 Events
Next round of talks planned
next week after February 7, 2026
US and Iran to hold a new round of talks early next week. Neither side has changed negotiating positions.[6]
Araghchi states Iran rejected military presence
February 8, 2026
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran firmly stated to mediators that any military presence at the talks was unacceptable, insisting on strictly nuclear negotiations.[1]
Iranian MP condemns Cooper's presence
February 6, 2026
MP Ebrahim Rezaei stated on X that Cooper's presence violates Iran's 2019 law designating US troops, including CENTCOM, as terrorists. He said one does not negotiate with terrorists.[2]
WSJ reports CENTCOM chief's attendance
February 6, 2026
The Wall Street Journal reported that Admiral Brad Cooper, US Central Command chief, was part of the US delegation in Oman.[2]
Talks conclude with plans for follow-up
February 6, 2026
Both delegations agreed to hold follow-on discussions after consultations with capitals. Araghchi called it a good start depending on US decisions.[2][4]
Indirect US-Iran talks begin in Muscat
February 6, 2026
Talks started with a slight delay. US delegation included Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Admiral Brad Cooper. Iran presented a preliminary plan to manage the situation, limited to nuclear issues.[3][4]
Omani Foreign Minister meets parties separately
February 6, 2026
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi met separately with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the US delegation before mediating the indirect talks.[2][4]
Talks relocated to Oman at Iran's request
February 2026
After initial resistance, the meeting was moved from Istanbul to Oman at Iran's request. Iranian officials insisted on a strictly bilateral format limited to the nuclear file.[3]