U.S. and Iran to hold a third round of nuclear talks in Geneva

Iran and the United States prepared to meet Thursday in Geneva for a third round of nuclear negotiations, talks viewed as a last chance for diplomacy as America has gathered a fleet of aircraft and warships to the Middle East to pressure Tehran into a deal on its nuclear program. The high-stakes discussions come amid heightened tensions following a 12-day war between Israel and Iran last year and ongoing protests within Iran that have weakened the Islamic Republic's position. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva on Wednesday night, meeting with Omani officials who are mediating the talks before presenting Iran's proposals to American counterparts. The negotiations represent a critical juncture in the already strained relationship between Washington and Tehran. President Trump has pushed to halt Iran's uranium enrichment entirely, while also addressing Tehran's ballistic missile program and support of regional militant forces. Iran has maintained the talks must remain focused solely on nuclear issues, despite its nuclear facilities being damaged in a US attack last June. If an agreement cannot be reached, Iran has warned that all US military bases in the Middle East would be considered legitimate targets, potentially putting tens of thousands of American service members at risk and escalating into a devastating regional conflict. The geopolitical stakes are particularly high given the potential consequences of failure. Satellite imagery has shown activity at Iranian nuclear sites bombed by the US, suggesting Tehran is attempting to recover materials while blocking international inspectors from visiting. Oil prices have already risen to approximately $70 per barrel amid concerns about potential disruptions to supply through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which a fifth of globally traded oil passes. Iranian officials have emphasized that any military action would not result in victory for any party but would instead draw the entire region into a devastating conflict, with unpredictable consequences for global stability and security.