U.S. and Iran to hold nuclear talks. And, Harvard professor resigns over Epstein ties

"Officials from the U.S. and Iran are set to meet today in Geneva to discuss Tehran's nuclear program in what appears to be the last opportunity to avoid war. The development comes after President Trump claimed, without providing evidence, in his State of the Union address that Iran was developing missiles that could reach the U.S. The U.S. military buildup in the Middle East is currently at its highest level since the U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003."

"The U.S.' threats against Iran and the possibility of Iranian retaliation have raised the risk of a wider war, putting the entire region on high alert, NPR's Jane Arraf tells Up First. Ahead of the two countries' meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that there is a basis for an agreement with the U.S. on the nuclear issue, but made it clear that ballistic missiles are off the table."

"Summers maintained communication with the late financier even after Epstein's first conviction in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Prominent Harvard professor and economist Larry Summers announced his resignation from teaching later this year. His statement comes after a new revelation about Summers' relationship with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein."

U.S. and Iranian officials are meeting in Geneva to discuss Tehran's nuclear program in what may be the last opportunity to prevent war. The U.S. military presence in the Middle East has reached its highest level since 2003, following President Trump's claims about Iranian missile development. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated a basis for nuclear agreement exists, but ballistic missiles remain non-negotiable. No major breakthroughs are anticipated, though scheduling additional talks would indicate progress. Multiple Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, are urging citizens to evacuate due to escalating conflict risks. Additionally, Harvard professor Larry Summers announced his resignation following revelations about his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

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