Iran and U.S. near new deal amid tensions
Negotiations continue as both sides prepare for potential escalation.
The Brief
- Iran left Qatar after talks aimed at ending the war.
- U.S. and Iran discuss reopening Strait of Hormuz if conditions are met.
- China plans to send envoy to mediate regional tensions.
An Iranian delegation left Qatar after discussions aimed at ending the conflict, with a draft proposal shared for feedback. A follow-up meeting is being considered, though details remain unclear.
Iran has increased its threats but is awaiting a U.S. response. A recent proposal suggests the Strait of Hormuz could be fully reopened within two days if Washington lifts its blockade of Iranian ports.
U.S. President Donald Trump described a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as 'very good,' though no details were provided. Netanyahu has not commented publicly on the call since last week’s elections.
Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has urged immediate retaliation against any threat from the U.S. or Israel. He has not been publicly seen since the attacks on Feb. 28 that killed his father.
Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, warned of devastating consequences for any attack and noted a shift in the U.S. tone. However, he did not confirm whether he had responded to a letter from U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Regional tensions remain high, with more attacks reported on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Gulf nations have expressed concern over the potential for further escalation and called for dialogue.
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