Iran Says US Talks Are Off to a 'Good Start’

Summary

Bloomberg Radio hosts discuss the Iran-US talks in Oman, which Iran described as a good start. Guest Hagar Chemali argues diplomacy and military action are not mutually exclusive, expects possible strikes, and doubts Iran will negotiate seriously on nuclear and missile issues. She also says Iran's banking and economic crisis could cause regime collapse regardless of kinetic action, and she sees proxy threats as likely but manageable. The segment notes the lack of a detailed US readout and comments on the roles of Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

• Iran and US held nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman; Iran called the start good and another round is expected.
• Hagar Chemali says diplomatic talks do not preclude military strikes and she expects some strikes eventually.
• She says Iran has not negotiated seriously on its nuclear program, ballistic missiles, or regional proxies.
• She argues Iran's economy is fragile, with a major bank failure and five more banks near implosion.
• She believes the Iranian regime could fall from economic weakness regardless of military action.
• She expects Houthi/proxy attacks if conflict escalates but views them as limited and manageable.
• She says the Trump administration likely wants to preserve unpredictability by not giving detailed readouts.
• She comments on Witkoff and Kushner's mixed track record in negotiations.