• US-Iran nuclear negotiations confirmed for Thursday in Geneva, according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi.
• Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expresses hope for a diplomatic resolution despite increased US military presence in the region.
• Concerns escalate as US threats of military action rise amidst ongoing anti-government protests in Iran.

The United States and Iran are set to resume crucial nuclear negotiations this Thursday in Geneva, as confirmed by Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. He expressed optimism about these talks, stating there is a "positive push to go the extra mile towards finalizing the deal" amid the backdrop of rising tensions between the two nations and increasing military deployments in the region, according to Al Jazeera and Anadolu Agency.

Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, indicated on CBS that there are plans for a draft proposal to be discussed during the meeting, as there remains a "good chance to have a diplomatic solution." His remarks pointed to a consensus on focusing solely on the nuclear program amidst broader tensions fueled by a significant increase in US military presence in the area, including the deployment of two aircraft carriers, according to Channel News Asia and Le Monde.

As the negotiations approach, concerns have intensified, especially after Iranian officials warned that if the US attacks, they would have the right to self-defense. There is ever-growing apprehension in Iran due to severe military threats and recent protests following a crackdown that reportedly led to thousands of fatalities, as documented by human rights organizations. Recent gatherings by students in Tehran have displayed both support and dissent against the current regime, further instability amidst the external pressures is reflected in Channel News Asia and India Times.

Experts have noted that both sides are preparing for potential confrontations should discussions falter, with the US firmly insisting that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons, which has led to heightened military readiness and potential preemptive actions by the US. The international community watches closely as negotiations resume, particularly given previous interruptions from military engagements, according to Los Angeles Times and India Times.