Overview

• The US and Iran have initiated discussions in Oman to address Iran’s advancing nuclear program, marking the first high-level talks since the US exited the 2015 nuclear deal.
• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff lead the delegations, with Oman acting as a mediator as Iran insists on indirect negotiations.
• President Trump has warned of potential military action, including airstrikes, if the talks fail to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
• Iran’s uranium enrichment has reached 60%, nearing weapons-grade levels, raising concerns over the potential for weaponization despite Tehran’s claims of peaceful intent.
• The talks unfold against a backdrop of regional tensions, including conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, and strained US-Iran relations following years of sanctions and military threats.