US-Iran Talks in New York: Diplomatic Opening or Illusion?

Intense diplomatic consultations at the UN General Assembly in New York are underway, but analysts say a US-Iran breakthrough deal this week is highly unlikely despite efforts to restart talks. The two nations remain at war, with fundamental disagreements unresolved. US President Donald Trump used the UN podium Tuesday to issue fresh threats against Iran, suggesting he could "obliterate" the country. Behind closed doors, however, US envoys Steve Witcoff and Jared Kushner held three-hour indirect talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, which Trump called "very good" and "particularly productive." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in New York Wednesday, marking the first visit by a leader of a country at war with the US. Analysts note a series of converging efforts could build trust, but both sides have a history of failed negotiations leading to military conflict. Gulf states like Qatar and Oman remain key mediators, while China, Iran's main oil buyer, could encourage compromise but cannot impose a solution. The Strait of Hormuz remains the central sticking point.