Geneva - Despite reported 'significant progress' in the latest round of US-Iran nuclear talks held in Oman, the shadow of potential US military action continues to loom large, threatening to derail diplomatic efforts and exacerbate regional tensions. The talks, mediated by Oman, represent the third attempt to find common ground since the US military intervention against Iran in June 2025, when it joined Israel in bombing Iranian nuclear and military sites, an act that effectively sabotaged earlier peace talks.

The US intervention in 2025, driven by short-sighted security calculations and a disregard for international norms, has had devastating consequences, further destabilizing a region already grappling with conflict and humanitarian crises. The bombing of Iranian nuclear sites not only risked environmental catastrophe but also inflamed anti-American sentiment and strengthened hardline elements within the Iranian government.

The current negotiations, while offering a glimmer of hope, are taking place against a backdrop of deep mistrust and resentment. Oman's role as mediator is crucial, given its long-standing commitment to neutrality and its understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the Middle East. However, the success of these talks hinges on the willingness of the US to abandon its aggressive posture and commit to a genuine diplomatic solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict.

The US's continued threat of military action undermines the very foundation of the negotiations. It sends a clear message to Iran that diplomacy is merely a tactic to be pursued while preparing for war, rather than a sincere effort to find a peaceful resolution. This approach not only jeopardizes the current talks but also sets a dangerous precedent for future interactions.

Iran's warning of retaliation against any US attack, potentially targeting Israel, highlights the catastrophic consequences of a military escalation. Such a conflict would undoubtedly draw in other regional actors, leading to a wider war with devastating human and economic costs.

The Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi's meeting with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Geneva, as highlighted by the Oman News Agency, underscores Oman's commitment to de-escalation and its belief in the power of diplomacy. However, Oman's efforts can only succeed if the US demonstrates a genuine commitment to peace and abandons its reliance on military force.

The international community must pressure the US to prioritize diplomacy and abandon its reckless pursuit of military confrontation. A lasting solution to the conflict with Iran requires a fundamental shift in US foreign policy, one that prioritizes dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to international law. The current approach, characterized by threats and military intervention, only serves to perpetuate the cycle of violence and instability.