Senior officials from the United States and Iran are meeting in Oman for direct talks as tensions between the two countries remain very high. The discussions are taking place amid fears that the crisis could turn into a military conflict.
Both sides say they are open to talks, but strong warnings and military actions have raised concerns about whether diplomacy will succeed.
Military Pressure Continues on Both Sides
The talks come after a large US military build-up in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has sent thousands of troops, warships, fighter jets, and an aircraft carrier to the region. He described the deployment as a powerful “armada.”
Iran has also shown its military strength. Just before the talks, Iranian state television reported that Iran deployed its long-range Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile at an underground military base. Iranian officials say the move is meant to defend the country and send a warning.
Strong Warnings from Washington and Tehran
President Trump has warned that “bad things” could happen if no deal is reached. The White House has said that military action is still an option if diplomacy fails.
Iran has responded by saying it will strike US military targets and Israel if attacked. Tehran has also warned nearby countries hosting US bases that they could be affected if a conflict breaks out.
Dispute Over What the Talks Should Include
A major problem is disagreement over what issues should be discussed.
The US wants talks to include:
- Iran’s nuclear programme
- Ballistic missiles
- Support for armed groups in the Middle East
- Human rights inside Iran
Iran has rejected this wider agenda. Tehran says the talks should focus only on nuclear issues. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran will not discuss its missile programme, calling it a matter of national defence.
Nuclear Programme at the Center
Iran says its nuclear programme is for peaceful use. The US and Israel believe it is meant to build nuclear weapons.
Iran currently has around 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium. Officials have said Iran could show flexibility, such as handing over the stockpile or accepting zero enrichment under a joint regional plan. However, Iran insists that its right to enrich uranium must be recognised.
Iran Under Pressure at Home
The talks come during a difficult period for Iran’s leaders. The country has seen large protests due to economic problems. Human rights groups say security forces killed thousands of protesters and arrested more than 50,000 people.
Experts say Iran’s leadership is under serious pressure and may see the talks as a way to avoid more sanctions or military action.
Regional Concerns About Wider Conflict
Countries in the Middle East fear that a US strike on Iran could lead to a larger regional war. Regional powers such as Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar are trying to reduce tensions.
The talks were first planned for Istanbul but were moved to Oman at Iran’s request. Oman has acted as a mediator between the two countries in the past.
High Stakes for Both Countries
For Iran, the talks could lead to sanctions relief that may help its struggling economy. Critics say this would strengthen the current leadership.
For the US, the talks could offer a way out of growing military threats. However, US officials have said that a deal focused only on nuclear issues may not be enough.
What Lies Ahead
As talks begin, hopes for a quick deal remain low. Both sides continue to prepare for conflict while speaking about peace. Whether these talks can prevent war will depend on what happens in the coming days.
The world is now watching Oman closely as diplomacy faces one of its toughest tests.
