Omani officials have expressed optimism about the talks, hoping to transform this sentiment into tangible outcomes despite the prevailing regional tensions.

The United States and Iran have initiated significant discussions in Oman regarding Iran's nuclear program, prompted by American threats of military action if no agreement is reached.

The outcome of the talks could vary widely, ranging from a comprehensive agreement to potential military action, with significant implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy.

While President Trump announced these negotiations as 'direct' talks, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that they would be indirect for the time being.

Iranian officials, including Araghchi, have downplayed the significance of the encounter, presenting it as a brief exchange to mitigate potential backlash from hard-liners in Iran.

These discussions occur against a backdrop of recent violence, including the Hamas attack on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties.

The backdrop of these negotiations is complicated by 45 years of diplomatic non-contact, which has fostered mutual ignorance about each other's political systems and motivations.

This meeting marks the first serious engagement between the two countries in a decade, although both sides maintain low expectations for immediate breakthroughs.

Saudi Arabia is closely monitoring the situation, seeking increased stability while balancing the risks of a solid agreement against the potential for war.

European partners, including Britain and Germany, are also watching the negotiations closely to ensure alignment with their security interests.

Analysts suggest that the inability to agree on the format of negotiations indicates a lack of serious efforts, with success estimates ranging from 'zero to none.'

Trump has emphasized that if drastic actions are necessary, he would take them, framing such measures as beneficial not just for the U.S. but for global stability.