Overview

• US President Donald Trump has reiterated the possibility of military action, with Israel taking a leading role, should nuclear talks with Iran fail.
• Negotiations between US and Iranian representatives are scheduled for Saturday in Oman, with indications of indirect discussions mediated by Oman.
• Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful and has warned it may expel IAEA inspectors if external pressures increase before the talks.
• The US has bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying long-range bombers and positioning the aircraft carrier 'Carl Vinson' near Iranian waters.
• Trump’s push for a resolution is seen as an attempt to bolster his international stature following previous diplomatic failures in Ukraine and Gaza.