US–Iran Nuclear Talks Canceled After Israeli Strikes, Oman Says/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Oman confirms that planned U.S.–Iran talks on Tehran’s nuclear program are canceled following an intense 48 hours of Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. An Israeli drone reportedly hit Iran’s South Pars gas plant, marking a significant escalation. With missile exchanges and rising tensions, diplomacy has been derailed amid growing fears of all-out conflict.
Diplomacy Disrupted: Quick Facts
- Negotiations suspended: Oman confirms U.S.–Iran talks set for Sunday are canceled.
- Israeli strike on gas plant: Drone reportedly struck South Pars facility, intensifying tensions.
- Iran–Israel military flare‑up: Both countries launched airstrikes, missile and drone attacks.
- Casualties reported: Iran claims 78 killed, 320+ injured; Israel reports at least 3 civilians and multiple soldiers wounded.
- Nuclear sites hit: Israeli attacks targeted Natanz and Isfahan facilities.
- Repair timeline: Iran unable to restore nuclear sites in mere weeks, per Israeli estimates.
- Diplomatic gulf grows: Iran calls talks “unjustifiable” post-strikes.
- World urges ceasefire: Regional leaders call for calm to prevent full-scale war.
US–Iran Nuclear Talks Canceled After Israeli Strikes, Oman Says
Deep Look
Why Talks Collapse
Diplomatic efforts, scheduled in Oman for Sunday, were abruptly halted after Israel unleashed its most severe air assault in decades on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure.
Oman’s foreign minister stated the talks are canceled, but emphasized that “diplomacy and dialogue remain the only pathway to lasting peace.”
First Strike on Energy Infrastructure
An Israeli drone struck a gas processing plant in South Pars—the first reported assault on Iran’s petroleum industry. The damage remains unconfirmed, but its significance is high; striking energy infrastructure could impact regional energy markets and ratchet up tensions further.
Military Exchange Escalates
Israel reportedly carried out hundreds of airstrikes, destroying Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites at Natanz and Isfahan and targeting radar and missile systems. Iran retaliated with missiles and drone volleys against Israeli territory. Explosions shook major cities; Israeli authorities confirmed at least three civilian fatalities and multiple injured.
Strategic Fallout
Militarily, neither side signaled restraint. Israel’s Defense Minister vowed Tehran would “burn” if missile attacks continue, while Iran’s Supreme Leader promised relentless retaliation. The conflict marks a dangerous shift toward open warfare between two heavily armed regional powers.
Diplomatic Repercussions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the attacks as being backed by the U.S., deeming the nuclear talks “unjustifiable.” The United States has denied direct involvement. This dramatic rupture could derail any progress on nuclear oversight efforts and reverse months of negotiation.
Nuclear Infrastructure Damage
Satellite imagery and U.N. monitoring confirm significant damage at Natanz’s surface facilities. While subterranean centrifuges remain intact, power disruptions may have long-term impact. Analysts say rebuilding may require “more than a few weeks,” raising doubts about Iran’s nuclear timeline.
Regional & Global Impact
The broader conflict could destabilize the Middle East, especially with Gaza still in turmoil after 20 months of war. Regional governments have called for urgent de-escalation to avoid global ramifications, including energy price shocks and diplomatic fractures.
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