The U.S. is racing to salvage nuclear talks with Iran as Israeli officials prepare for potential military strikes, intensifying fears of a regional conflict and further complicating Washington’s already faltering diplomacy.

Envoy to Meet Iran’s FM Amid Escalation

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff plans to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on Sunday, according to U.S. officials. The talks aim to address Iran’s counterproposal to a recent American nuclear deal offer deemed “unacceptable” by Tehran.

Trump Retreats from Optimism

President Donald Trump signaled fading optimism over the negotiations, saying he had grown “less confident” about reaching an agreement that would block Iran’s nuclear pathway. In an earlier podcast interview, Trump confirmed he had warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to launch an attack that could derail talks.

Israeli leadership views the current moment as a window of opportunity, believing Iran is vulnerable. Netanyahu has previously backed off from airstrikes, but this time, officials suggest preparations may be further along.

Existential Threat and Warnings of War

“An Iranian bomb would be an existential threat to Israel,” Witkoff said in a recent interview cited by Israeli and Arab media, reaffirming that the U.S. will not tolerate any Iranian nuclear capability.

Iran, for its part, warned that any military strike would provoke regional retaliation. Defense Minister Nasirzadeh emphasized that all U.S. bases in the region are “within reach” if Tehran is attacked.