High-stakes talks are set to commence in Oman on Friday between Iran and the United States, marking the latest diplomatic effort concerning Tehran's nuclear ambitions. These discussions unfold against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, following a 12-day conflict launched by Israel against Iran in June and a subsequent brutal crackdown on widespread protests across the Islamic Republic.
President Donald Trump has maintained significant pressure on Iran, deploying aircraft carriers and other military assets to the Gulf. He has also suggested potential US military action in response to the killing of peaceful demonstrators or if Tehran were to carry out mass executions following the protests. Mr Trump has also brought Iran's nuclear programme back into sharp focus, particularly after the June conflict disrupted five rounds of talks held in Rome and Muscat last year.
