Baghdad: Iraq supports negotiations between Iran and the US scheduled to take place in Oman, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said Thursday. 'The region is going through a sensitive phase that requires resolving problems through dialogue and negotiations, away from the logic of violence,' Hussein told a joint news conference with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in Baghdad, as cited by the state news agency INA.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hussein praised the 'strong security, military and intelligence coordination between Iraq and France, as well as cooperation in combating human trafficking.' He mentioned that Iraq's Defense Ministry has signed a contract with French company Thales to purchase military radar systems, and welcomed the participation of French companies in the upcoming 49th Baghdad International Fair.

Hussein emphasized the importance of keeping the region away from conflict, stating, 'Keeping the region away from the flames of war is a duty for all countries.' He expressed Iraq's support for the talks between Iranian and US representatives, which are scheduled for Friday in Oman. These comments come as Iran and the US prepare to meet for discussions on Tehran's nuclear program in Muscat, following confirmation from a White House official that the talks will indeed take place.

The planned discussions occur amid increasing tensions between Washington and Tehran, marked by an American military buildup in the Persian Gulf and repeated military threats by President Donald Trump. Several countries have recently offered to mediate between Tehran and Washington to alleviate tensions, with Trkiye playing a notably active role. The US and its ally Israel accuse Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, whereas Tehran insists its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes, such as electricity generation.