Despite Omani mediation efforts and optimistic signals from Muscat, Washington has urged US citizens to leave Iran again and warned of “additional steps.” As tensions mount worldwide, Israeli officials believe a potential strike could come soon and outline how it might unfold.
Deep gaps remained at the end of the latest round of talks between Iran and the United States in Geneva. According to American officials, the question is not whether to strike, but which targets to choose.
Trump reportedly calls regime “bluffers” as a senior Israeli official asseses that a US strike could lead to the fall of the ayatollahs.
As officials prepare to meet in Geneva, there is deep doubt that Iran’s proposal will differ significantly from previous offers. Meanwhile, Iran’s rapid trials continue, with dozens sentenced to death at the start of the week.
Iran has agreed to a US demand for a revised proposal before any further nuclear negotiations. Washington alsp seeks clarity on ballistic missiles and support for proxies. Tehran refuses to discuss these issues for now, and proposes a regional conference after initial understandings are reached.
A debate is underway at the highest levels of the US administration over whether to grant Iran more time without first requiring a detailed proposal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi may meet US envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva, but officials in Washington assess that any Iranian flexibility will fall short of the minimum US demands.
Iran is willing to delay enrichment under IAEA oversight, but insists its nuclear facilities remain on iranian soil. US says the proposal is under consideration, yet falls short and considers limited strikes if talks do not progress.
A Western diplomat described the talks as “one step forward and two hiding behind,” with Tehran showing willingness to compromise on the nuclear issue and proposed regional economic initiatives. However, it is rejecting international inspections and deep disputes with Washington remain.
The second round of talks between the US and Iran ended in Geneva after about five hours, Araghchi said: “The discussions were more serious, but no date was set for the next round." According to The Wall Street Journal, Iran proposed not resuming enrichment and transferring part of its enriched uranium to another country, but refused to give up enrichment entirely.
Tehran believes that incorporating US companies into Iran’s energy, aviation and mining sectors would create a clear American interest in preserving a future agreement. Diplomatic sources assess that the move is a calculated attempt to appeal to the business instincts of President Donald Trump and the team around him.
