Iran's president orders resumption of nuclear talks with US

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the resumption of nuclear talks with the United States, signaling a willingness to negotiate despite ongoing regional tensions. The negotiations are expected to take place on Friday in Turkey, with Pezeshkian instructing Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to pursue "fair and equitable" discussions. This decision comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions following a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests in Iran and a significant buildup of US naval forces in the region, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier group. The US has expressed hope for a deal to avert military action against Iran, as indicated by President Donald Trump's recent statements. Trump has maintained a hopeful outlook regarding the potential for negotiations, which he believes could lead to a resolution of the current crisis. The Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, appears to support the move towards negotiations, reflecting a strategic decision to engage diplomatically despite the pressures from both domestic unrest and international military posturing. The upcoming talks represent a critical moment for both nations, as they seek to address the nuclear issue while navigating the complexities of their strained relationship. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for discussions that could significantly impact regional stability and international relations.