US-Iran nuclear talks in Oman mark a tentative diplomatic step amid heightened tensions following recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and a violent crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran.[1][2][3]

These indirect negotiations, the first major meeting since the US bombed Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities last June (after Israel’s strikes), involve Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkov meeting separately with Oman’s foreign minister in Muscat.[1][2] Talks focus primarily on Iran’s nuclear program, with the US demanding zero nuclear capability; scope remains unclear on related issues like Iran’s proxy support and ballistic missiles, which Iran resists addressing.[2] Background includes Trump’s withdrawal from the Obama-era deal, reinstated sanctions, Iran’s accelerated enrichment, stalled Biden-era talks, a recent US Navy shootdown of an Iranian drone near an American carrier 500 miles off Iran’s coast, and Trump’s suggestions of military force against the regime after protests killed thousands.[1][2] The US has deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region, while Iran vows retaliation against US bases if attacked.[2]

Other key global developments include:
– Severe weather in Europe: Portugal faces its worst floods in decades from Storm Marta, with Spain preparing for another storm (Leonardo) after recent battering floods and landslides.[2][3]
– US military action: A US Southern Command strike killed two on a vessel linked to terrorist groups during Operation Southern Spear, part of Trump’s anti-drug campaign; at least 119 killed in similar strikes on suspected drug boats.[1]
– Additional headlines: Top Russian GRU general and cyber ops chief shot in Moscow attack; France opens first EU consulate in Greenland; Dutch Queen Máxima trains as army reservist; Romanian teachers protest austerity; fake Epstein photos of politicians spread online.[3]

Domestic US notes with global implications: Trump plans a first meeting for his new Board of Peace in Washington this month and a White House strategy to reduce US reliance on China.[1][5] No further details on Venezuela cooperation or other trending stories like DC shootings were elaborated in sources.[1]