Iran and US to Hold Talks Amid Rising Tensions and Fresh Sanctions

Iran's top diplomat has arrived in Geneva for scheduled talks with United States representatives, even as the Trump administration simultaneously announced new sanctions and threatened the use of force against Tehran.The US has imposed fresh sanctions targeting vessels linked to Iran's oil trade, ramping up economic pressure on the Islamic Republic. The move comes as diplomatic channels remain open, creating a complex dynamic of negotiation coupled with punitive measures.The Geneva talks represent a rare direct engagement between the two nations, which have experienced heightened tensions over Iran's nuclear programme and regional activities. The simultaneous application of sanctions and threats of military action underscores the Trump administration's maximum pressure approach.International observers are watching closely to see whether the diplomatic engagement can yield any breakthrough or if the conflicting signals from Washington will derail potential progress toward de-escalation.