Senior officials from the United States and Iran will begin direct talks in Oman within hours as tensions between the two countries continue to rise and increase fears of military conflict.
The meeting follows a recent US military buildup in the Middle East. Washington increased its presence after Iran launched a crackdown on nationwide anti-government protests. Human rights groups say the unrest killed thousands of people and increased global pressure on Tehran.
Regional mediators arranged the negotiations to reduce growing tensions. However, the two countries remain divided on key issues. The United States wants Iran to stop its nuclear program, remove enriched uranium stockpiles, and address missile development and support for armed groups in the region.
Iran says it will only discuss nuclear matters. Officials in Tehran rejected wider demands and called them violations of national sovereignty.
US President Donald Trump recently warned Iran about possible military action if both sides fail to reach an agreement. The United States has sent additional troops, warships, fighter jets, and an aircraft carrier to the region.
Iran warned it would respond strongly to any attack. Iranian officials said they could target US military bases in the Middle East and Israel if conflict begins.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will lead Iran’s delegation. The United States will send special envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner to represent Washington.
The talks will mark the first direct contact between US and Iranian officials since last year’s Israel-Iran conflict. US forces struck several key Iranian nuclear sites during that conflict.
Iran is likely to push for relief from international sanctions, which have placed a heavy strain on its economy. It is still uncertain how the talks will end, but many officials see the meeting as a crucial step toward avoiding further tensions in the region.
