US Envoy to Hold Talks with Iran Amid Rising Tensions

US Envoy to Hold Talks with Iran Amid Rising Tensions

The United States and Iran are on the brink of diplomatic discussions led by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Turkey. Despite rising tensions, including the recent downing of an Iranian drone near a US aircraft carrier, both sides appear willing to engage in negotiations. Iran's Revolutionary Guard also reportedly harassed a merchant vessel flying the American flag, prompting a response from a US destroyer. President Masoud Pezeshkian has signaled a shift toward negotiations, backed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who previously dismissed talks.