<p>Senior officials from the United States and Iran are preparing for high-stakes, face-to-face negotiations in Oman, as fears grow that prolonged hostility could spiral into open conflict. The talks, scheduled to take place in Muscat, come at a moment of heightened tension following a fresh US military buildup in the Middle East and Iran’s violent suppression of recent anti-government protests.</p> <p>The diplomatic effort nearly collapsed due to uncertainty over the format and location of the discussions. However, regional intermediaries stepped in to salvage the initiative, keeping communication lines open between Washington and Tehran. Observers say the talks reflect a fragile but necessary attempt to cool a relationship strained by years of mistrust, sanctions, and military brinkmanship.</p> <h3>Diplomatic Push Amid Rising Pressure</h3> <p>The negotiations follow a major US force deployment to the region, triggered by Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests last month. Human rights groups allege that the crackdown led to thousands of deaths, adding another layer of complexity to already strained relations. While the United States has voiced alarm over Iran’s internal actions, Tehran has rejected international criticism, calling it interference in its domestic affairs, reported BBC.</p> <p>Despite the tense backdrop, both sides have agreed to sit across the table, underscoring the risks of further escalation. </p> <h3>Washington & Tehran At Odds Over Scope</h3> <p>The United States is pushing for comprehensive discussions that go beyond Iran’s nuclear activities. American officials want Tehran to dismantle its enriched uranium reserves, curb its ballistic missile program, rein in support for armed groups across the region, and address alleged human rights violations. Iran, however, has drawn a firm line, insisting the talks be confined strictly to nuclear-related issues.</p> <p>Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is leading Tehran’s delegation and is expected to engage with President Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner. Whether the sharply different expectations can be reconciled remains uncertain.</p> <h3>Military Signals Underscore Fragile Talks</h3> <p>On Thursday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that President Trump prefers a diplomatic solution, saying he hopes for progress in Oman while insisting Iran must achieve “zero nuclear capability.” She also warned that the President retains “many options” if talks fail, reported India Today.</p> <p>Meanwhile, US Central Command confirmed that the USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group are conducting routine operations in the region. Tensions intensified earlier this week when US fighter jets shot down an Iranian drone near the carrier. Trump has previously described the US military presence as an “armada,” reinforcing the message that force remains an option.</p> <p>Iran has responded with warnings of retaliation, threatening to target US forces in the region and Israel if attacked, casting a long shadow over the fragile diplomatic effort.</p>
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