• Ali Larijani meets with Omani officials following US-Iran nuclear talks.
• Discussions include Iran's uranium enrichment and bilateral cooperation.
• Larijani's visit is seen as a positive step in diplomatic efforts.

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, arrived in Oman for talks following a round of discussions between Tehran and Washington regarding Iran’s nuclear program, aimed at averting a potential conflict. Larijani's visit involves meetings with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, with reports indicating discussions on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing regional developments. This diplomatic engagement follows a round of indirect talks last week that aimed to deescalate tensions between the US and Iran, especially concerning nuclear capabilities, according to aljazeera and latimes.

During Larijani's meetings, discussions centered on the next steps in negotiations following previous talks in Muscat. The Omani Foreign Minister reportedly handed over a letter to Larijani, which may be part of ongoing communications on the negotiation framework. This invigorates hopes for a resolution as Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium, a major sticking point with the US, according to channelnewsasia and latimes.

Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have made it clear that while they expect to be able to enrich uranium, they are open to negotiations as long as their national interests are preserved in accordance with international norms. The recent talks held in Oman represent an initial step towards addressing complex issues involving Iran's nuclear strategy. "Our principles are clear," stated Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, emphasizing the need to safeguard national interests within the context of international agreements, according to aljazeera and channelnewsasia.

As these diplomatic efforts unfold, tensions remain heightened in the region, with the US recently deploying additional military resources to the Middle East. This includes the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and other ships, aimed at maintaining pressure on Iran and ensuring readiness for any escalation. "Everyone would love to see something that would resolve without a war, but it’ll be up to Iran," stated US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, indicating the gravity of the situation, according to latimes and channelnewsasia.