US and Iran hold third round of nuclear talks as more American forces deploy to the Mideast

Indirect talks between the United States and Iran began in Geneva for a third round of nuclear negotiations, while the United States has deployed additional aircraft and warships to the Middle East.

Indirect talks between the United States and Iran began Thursday in Geneva for a third round of nuclear negotiations. Oman is mediating the meetings and published images showing U.S. envoys meeting Oman's foreign minister at an Omani diplomatic residence. The talks follow a June conflict that damaged Iranian nuclear sites and interrupted earlier negotiations. The United States has gathered additional aircraft and warships in the Middle East as it seeks to press Tehran during the Geneva discussions. Key facts: - Indirect talks opened in Geneva and are being mediated by Oman. - Oman published images of U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meeting Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, and convoys believed to carry U.S. and Iranian diplomats were seen at the Omani residence. - The United States has deployed additional aircraft and warships to the Middle East ahead of the negotiations. - Iran says it wants to continue uranium enrichment, has blocked some International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors from sites struck in June, and satellite imagery showed activity at two of those sites. Summary: Officials describe these talks as a last diplomatic chance to address Iran's nuclear program and related concerns. Oman reported it will pass Iran's offer to American officials during the Geneva meetings. Officials have warned that failure of the talks could raise tensions in the region.