The US and Iran are set to hold crucial nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman, on Friday amid increasing military tension in the region. Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed the talks will begin around 10 a.m., thanking Oman for arrangements. The talks come after an eight-month gap, with Iran sticking to its stance to discuss only nuclear matters. The US wants the talks to cover Iran's ballistic missile program and support for regional groups as well. Meanwhile, the US has deployed heavy naval power, including an aircraft carrier strike group near Iran. On Tuesday, US forces shot down an Iranian drone approaching the carrier. Iran called this drone a surveillance mission in international waters. Iranian foreign minister Seyed Araghchi said on X, “We engage in good faith and stand firm on our rights. Commitments need to be honored. Equal standing, mutual respect and mutual interest are not rhetoric—they are a must and the pillars of a durable agreement.” US President Donald Trump said last weekend the naval "armada" near Iran is larger than the force used to target Venezuela, adding, “If we do make a deal, that’s good. If we don’t make a deal, we’ll see what happens.” The talks face a tricky agenda dispute. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that the talks must cover Iran’s nuclear program, its sponsorship of terrorism, and human rights issues. Iran insists on limiting talks strictly to nuclear topics. The talks could be a last effort to avoid military conflict with Iran.