Iran and the United States are set to engage in the third round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, following escalating tensions in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has increased military pressure on Tehran by sending warships and aircraft to the region. This military buildup is viewed as a significant tactic to influence the discussions, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences if talks fail.

Before the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met his Omani counterpart, underscoring Oman's role as a mediator in the negotiations. This diplomatic effort emphasizes the importance of not just direct US-Iran relations, but also the involvement of regional partners like Oman, which adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions. Such back-channel dialogues often spark hope for resolving longstanding issues between the two nations.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern regarding Iran's reluctance to discuss its missile program, labeling it a 'big, big problem'. The insistence on avoiding this topic could complicate negotiations, as the US perceives ballistic missiles as a critical aspect of Iran's threat to regional stability. As the talks progress, the world watches closely to see if any breakthrough can be achieved amidst the looming military threat.