Iran, US Plan High-Stakes Nuclear Talks in Oman

Iran and the United States have initiated high-level talks in Oman focused on Tehran's nuclear program, with the aim of de-escalating regional tensions and discussing potential prisoner exchanges. The negotiations, which are mediated by Oman, involve Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Both sides are exploring ways to ease sanctions against Iran in exchange for measures that would control its nuclear ambitions. Despite the cautious optimism expressed by Iranian officials, there are underlying tensions, especially with US President Trump having previously threatened military action if no agreement is reached. The talks represent the highest-level engagement since the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal, which the US exited in 2018. Iran insists it seeks a fair agreement while maintaining that it does not desire nuclear weapons, despite stockpiling enriched uranium.