Representatives from the USA and Iran convened in Geneva for a second round of indirect nuclear talks, mediated by Oman, amidst heightened tensions. The US deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East and reportedly prepared for potential military action if negotiations failed, prompting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to issue threats. Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched a military exercise in the Strait of Hormuz, testing missile readiness and briefly closing parts of the vital shipping route. Despite deep mistrust and past grievances, both sides expressed cautious optimism, with US President Donald Trump believing Tehran desires an agreement due to the consequences of failure. The discussions focus on Iran's nuclear program, with the US aiming to prevent nuclear weapons acquisition and Iran seeking sanctions relief in exchange for program limitations, while excluding missile programs and support for militant groups from the agenda.