US-Iran Talks Rescued After Arab Lobbying

Plans for US-Iran nuclear talks nearly collapsed after Iran insisted on moving the venue from Istanbul to Oman and limiting the agenda to nuclear issues only. At least nine Middle Eastern countries urgently lobbied the Trump administration not to cancel, with leaders reaching out 'at the highest levels.' The White House agreed to proceed 'to be respectful' to regional allies and to continue pursuing the diplomatic track. Talks were rescheduled for February 6 in Muscat.