A stark evacuation warning, warships on the move, and collapsing trust have pushed US–Iran tensions to a dangerous new edge just days before crucial negotiations in Oman.
Ahead of a decisive round of talks between the United States and Iran scheduled to take place in Oman, Washington has issued an urgent security alert instructing all American citizens in Iran to leave the country immediately. The warning, released early Friday, stressed that US nationals should not expect government assistance in arranging their departure, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The talks are expected to involve US President Donald Trump’s special representative Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, with Iran represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Despite the diplomatic engagement, expectations for a breakthrough remain low, with officials on both sides signaling deep mistrust and hardened positions.
Military tensions are rising in parallel. The United States has deployed a powerful naval force to the Persian Gulf, led by the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln. Analysts estimate the risk of a military confrontation in the coming days or weeks at around 75 percent, citing heightened readiness on both sides.
Washington has laid out three key demands: Iran must destroy its uranium stockpiles, limit its ballistic missile program, and end funding for armed groups across the Middle East. Tehran has rejected these conditions, calling them an infringement on sovereignty and warning that any attack would trigger retaliation against US interests in Israel and the wider region.
This marks the first formal engagement since last year’s brief but intense conflict with Israel, during which major Iranian nuclear facilities were damaged. If talks collapse, analysts warn the US could pursue a naval blockade or limited airstrikes, sharply escalating the crisis.
