Tensions between the US and Iran are escalating as talks on nuclear issues are set to take place in Oman instead of Turkey. The move comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, where the US has increased its military presence. Iran's leadership is worried that a strike by the US could lead to widespread unrest.
The Iranian government wants only bilateral talks with the US, focusing solely on nuclear issues, while the US aims to discuss broader topics including ballistic missiles and the activities of Iranian proxies in the region. The shift in venue has added complexity to an already delicate diplomatic effort aimed at avoiding conflict and de-escalating tension.
The situation is further complicated by Iran's recent crackdown on anti-government protests, which have led to a significant escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington. The US has responded with military build-ups in the region, including the deployment of additional forces to the Arabian Sea.
Iran shot down an American drone that approached its naval vessel, and also harassed a US-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. These incidents highlight the growing risk of conflict in the Middle East as Iran's leadership faces increasing pressure from Washington.
The US is pushing for concessions on nuclear issues, including limits on Iran's ballistic missile programme and an end to support for regional proxies. However, Iranian officials say these demands are unacceptable infringements of their sovereignty, and that they are willing to show flexibility on uranium enrichment.
In a bid to prevent conflict, Gulf Arab states have urged negotiations between the US and Iran, warning that another war in the region would be catastrophic. The situation remains volatile, with both sides showing signs of resolve, as the talks set to take place in Oman get underway.
The Iranian government wants only bilateral talks with the US, focusing solely on nuclear issues, while the US aims to discuss broader topics including ballistic missiles and the activities of Iranian proxies in the region. The shift in venue has added complexity to an already delicate diplomatic effort aimed at avoiding conflict and de-escalating tension.
The situation is further complicated by Iran's recent crackdown on anti-government protests, which have led to a significant escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington. The US has responded with military build-ups in the region, including the deployment of additional forces to the Arabian Sea.
Iran shot down an American drone that approached its naval vessel, and also harassed a US-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. These incidents highlight the growing risk of conflict in the Middle East as Iran's leadership faces increasing pressure from Washington.
The US is pushing for concessions on nuclear issues, including limits on Iran's ballistic missile programme and an end to support for regional proxies. However, Iranian officials say these demands are unacceptable infringements of their sovereignty, and that they are willing to show flexibility on uranium enrichment.
In a bid to prevent conflict, Gulf Arab states have urged negotiations between the US and Iran, warning that another war in the region would be catastrophic. The situation remains volatile, with both sides showing signs of resolve, as the talks set to take place in Oman get underway.