US, Iran Expected to Hold Sixth Nuclear Talks in Oman Amid Rising Tensions

The sixth round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran is set to take place in Muscat, Oman, aiming to address Tehran's advancing nuclear program. US President Donald Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff prioritize reaching a deal that could lead to the lifting of some economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for limiting uranium enrichment, a contentious issue that remains unresolved. Trump has described Iran's negotiating posture as increasingly aggressive, emphasizing that Iran's demand to continue uranium enrichment is unacceptable and warning of a dire alternative if no agreement is reached. Iran has rejected the US proposal as unreasonable and plans to submit its own counterproposal, insisting on economic benefits and restoration of banking and trade relations before sanctions are lifted. The negotiations occur amid heightened regional tensions, with the US reducing staff in the Middle East and warnings of potential attacks on ships in nearby waters. Failure to reach an agreement risks escalating conflict in a region already strained by the Israel-Hamas war, with the possibility of military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities or Iran pursuing a nuclear bomb.