Iran Halts Indirect Talks with US Amid Tensions

Iran has halted indirect negotiations with the United States in Oman, according to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who cited heightened regional tensions and a potential Israeli retaliatory strike following Iran's missile attack. Araghchi stated there are 'no grounds' for talks until the current crisis is resolved, emphasizing that the Muscat process is paused due to the 'special situation in the region.' Despite indications from Iran's new leadership under President Masoud Pezeshkian that they seek sanctions relief negotiations, Tehran has continued to enrich uranium to near weapons-grade levels since the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal. US intelligence maintains that Iran has not initiated a nuclear weapons program, despite its escalated activities. Meanwhile, Israel has threatened significant retaliation against Iran for its recent missile actions, marking increased hostilities in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Araghchi's visit to Oman also included discussions with representatives from Yemen's Houthi movement, highlighting Iran's engagement with regional allies.