US and Iran begin talks in Oman over nuclear programme.

The US and Iran are starting negotiations in Oman focused on Iran's nuclear programme, the first talks since strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June. Iranian and US teams say the initial agenda will cover the nuclear dispute only.

The United States and Iran are beginning negotiations in Oman about Iran's nuclear programme. These are the first talks since strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June, which halted earlier negotiations. The discussions come as the US has increased its naval presence in the region and after a forceful government crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran. Key facts: - Officials report the talks will initially focus on Iran's nuclear programme, while US officials had sought a wider agenda including missiles and regional activity. - These are the first formal discussions between US and Iranian negotiators since the June strikes that interrupted previous talks. - No public schedule for follow-up steps has been announced; the next procedural steps are undetermined at this time. Summary: The talks are presented as a diplomatic effort to address nuclear tensions between the US and Iran and to lower regional tensions. Undetermined at this time.