US and Iran Start Talks as Lebanon War Risks Nuclear Deal

The United States and Iran have begun direct negotiations, raising hopes for a breakthrough but also fears that the escalating conflict in Lebanon could derail any agreement. The talks, confirmed by officials from both sides, mark the first high-level diplomatic contact between the two countries in months. The main goal is to revive the stalled nuclear deal, which limits Iran’s uranium enrichment in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. However, the situation in Lebanon is now a major obstacle. Hezbollah, a powerful group backed by Iran, is involved in heavy fighting with Israeli forces near the border. This violence threatens to spread and make a diplomatic solution harder to reach. Analysts say the timing of the talks is critical. If the Lebanon conflict intensifies, Iran may demand tougher conditions, or the US may walk away. Both sides are under pressure to show progress quickly. The discussions are being held in a neutral location. No details have been released about the specific proposals on the table.