Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing a new framework governing commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints.

According to reports, the proposed arrangement would route inbound vessels through Iranian territorial waters and outbound traffic through Omani waters, with no tolls during an initial 60-day period. The agreement could significantly increase Iran's role in managing shipping through the strait and reshape regional geopolitics.

The United States has not officially responded to the reports, while Vice President JD Vance has warned that negotiations with Iran remain complex. Analysts say any agreement may only provide a temporary solution as political divisions continue within both Iran and the United States.

Iran-Oman Near Strait of Hormuz Shipping Deal | Will the U.S. Accept the New Framework?

Iran has indicated that it is not yet ready to negotiate a final agreement with the United States, saying key provisions of the recently signed 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be implemented before comprehensive talks can begin.&nbsp;Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, also warned that Tehran would respond to any "violations of the understanding" that ended the recent conflict. Referring to incidents in the Persian Gulf, he said Iran viewed them as breaches of the ceasefire even as diplomatic engagement with Washington continued.&nbsp;According to the ISNA news agency, Ghalibaf said in a televised interview on Tuesday, "We consider the events that are taking place in the Persian Gulf these nights to be a violation of the understanding to end the war, and we will definitely react to it, and naturally, the other side will react as well."&nbsp;He also reaffirmed that diplomacy remains Tehran's preferred approach, while making it clear that Iran is prepared for military action if negotiations collapse. Speaking to state television, he said, "We are pursuing dialogue, but if the dialogue is not implemented, we are also prepared for war and will respond accordingly," AFP reported&nbsp;His remarks came as Iranian and US delegations were due to hold separate discussions in Doha to discuss the implementation of the MoU through mediators.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-sc-order-says-will-bring-legislation-to-end-birthright-citizenship-1782838001426">Trump slams SC order, says will bring legislation to end birthright citizenship</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iran says oil exports plummeted to zero during blockade</h2>The Iranian Parliament Speaker said the country has sharply increased oil exports since the US blockade on its ports was lifted, after a period during which it could not export any crude.&nbsp;"From the day the blockade was lifted until today, we have exported more than 40 million barrels of oil." He added, "By contrast, during the previous 50 to nearly 60 days, we were genuinely unable to export even a single barrel of oil," he said.&nbsp;Describing the lifting of the blockade as a major success, "The most severe type of war is a naval blockade, meaning that people and their bread have been surrounded. This blockade was lifted, and it was one of the great successes of this memorandum that happened after that; the final digital signing was carried out," he added.&nbsp;Although senior US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, travelled to Doha to push forward negotiations, Iranian officials have maintained that there are no plans for direct talks with the US delegation, with discussions continuing through mediators.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Qatar's Prime Minister met Witkoff and Kushner in Doha to discuss the ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;In a statement, Qatar's Foreign Ministry said the Prime Minister reaffirmed the country's mediation efforts and expressed support for all negotiations stemming from the MoU.

Ghalibaf said Iran continues to prioritise diplomacy with the United States but is ready to respond militarily if the talks do not succeed.

Iran has indicated that it is not yet ready to negotiate a final agreement with the United States, saying key provisions of the recently signed 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be implemented before comprehensive talks can begin. Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, also warned that Tehran would respond to any "violations of the understanding" that ended the recent conflict. Referring to incidents in the Persian Gulf, he said Iran viewed them as breaches of the ceasefire even as diplomatic engagement with Washington continued. According to the ISNA news agency, Ghalibaf said in a televised interview on Tuesday, "We consider the events that are taking place in the Persian Gulf these nights to be a violation of the understanding to end the war, and we will definitely react to it, and naturally, the other side will react as well." He also reaffirmed that diplomacy remains Tehran's preferred approach, while making it clear that Iran is prepared for military action if negotiations collapse. Speaking to state television, he said, "We are pursuing dialogue, but if the dialogue is not implemented, we are also prepared for war and will respond accordingly," AFP reported His remarks came as Iranian and US delegations were due to hold separate discussions in Doha to discuss the implementation of the MoU through mediators. Also Read: Trump slams SC order, says will bring legislation to end birthright citizenship Iran says oil exports plummeted to zero during blockade The Iranian Parliament Speaker said the country has sharply increased oil exports since the US blockade on its ports was lifted, after a period during which it could not export any crude. "From the day the blockade was lifted until today, we have exported more than 40 million barrels of oil." He added, "By contrast, during the previous 50 to nearly 60 days, we were genuinely unable to export even a single barrel of oil," he said. Describing the lifting of the blockade as a major success, "The most severe type of war is a naval blockade, meaning that people and their bread have been surrounded. This blockade was lifted, and it was one of the great successes of this memorandum that happened after that; the final digital signing was carried out," he added. Although senior US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, travelled to Doha to push forward negotiations, Iranian officials have maintained that there are no plans for direct talks with the US delegation, with discussions continuing through mediators. Meanwhile, Qatar's Prime Minister met Witkoff and Kushner in Doha to discuss the ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington. In a statement, Qatar's Foreign Ministry said the Prime Minister reaffirmed the country's mediation efforts and expressed support for all negotiations stemming from the MoU.

Ghalibaf said Iran continues to prioritise diplomacy with the United States but is ready to respond militarily if the talks do not succeed.

Iran 'prepared for war' if MoU not implemented: Ghalibaf warns US over ceasefire breaches

Iran on Monday said an expert delegation will travel to Doha later this week to discuss the implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed with the United States earlier this month. However, Tehran firmly denied that any meeting with US officials was scheduled.&nbsp;Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the delegation would focus only on implementing the clauses of the memorandum signed on June 17 between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;"An expert delegation from the Islamic Republic of Iran will travel to Doha later this week" to discuss the implementation of clauses of the memorandum, foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said.&nbsp;He stressed that negotiations on a final agreement had not yet begun.&nbsp;"We have not yet entered the stage of negotiating a final agreement," he said, noting that "over the coming days, we will not have any negotiation meetings with the US side at any level".&nbsp;The statement came hours after US President Donald Trump claimed Iran had sought a meeting in Doha on Tuesday.&nbsp;"IRAN HAS REQUESTED A MEETING. IT WILL TAKE PLACE TOMORROW IN DOHA!" Trump posted on his Truth Social platform on Monday, without specifying the participants.&nbsp;Later, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that US envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner "will be flying to Doha for high-level meetings this week".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/desperate-acts-of-violence-india-strongly-condemns-pakistan-air-strikes-on-afghanistan-killing-civilians-1782764622490">'Desperate acts of violence': India strongly condemns Pakistan air strikes on Afghanistan killing civilians</a><h2>Iran and Oman discuss the Strait of Hormuz</h2>Meanwhile, Iran's foreign ministry said it held its first meeting with Oman on Monday to discuss the management of the Strait of Hormuz after Tehran and Washington signed their preliminary agreement aimed at ending the Middle East war.&nbsp;Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the Joint Hormuz Committee met during his visit to Muscat.&nbsp;"During a trip to Muscat, the first meeting of the Joint Hormuz Committee was held," said Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi on X.&nbsp;"While reviewing the current issues related to the strait, we exchanged views on the future management," he added.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway separating Iran and Oman, has remained a major issue in discussions between Tehran and Washington. Iran is considering introducing service fees that did not exist before the war, while the United States opposes such charges, arguing the strait is an international waterway.&nbsp;Separately, France and Oman said in a joint statement issued after a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq that they would conduct joint demining operations.&nbsp;Responding to the announcement, Gharibabadi insisted that only Iran would carry out demining activities under the agreement.&nbsp;"The situation is sensitive and complex. We strongly advise France not to complicate it further with its provocations," Gharibabadi wrote.

Iranian Foreign Ministry said the expert delegation would travel to Doha this week to discuss the implementation of the memorandum signed on June 17, while stressing that no negotiations on a final agreement or meetings with US officials were scheduled.

Iran on Monday said an expert delegation will travel to Doha later this week to discuss the implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed with the United States earlier this month. However, Tehran firmly denied that any meeting with US officials was scheduled. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the delegation would focus only on implementing the clauses of the memorandum signed on June 17 between Tehran and Washington. "An expert delegation from the Islamic Republic of Iran will travel to Doha later this week" to discuss the implementation of clauses of the memorandum, foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said. He stressed that negotiations on a final agreement had not yet begun. "We have not yet entered the stage of negotiating a final agreement," he said, noting that "over the coming days, we will not have any negotiation meetings with the US side at any level". The statement came hours after US President Donald Trump claimed Iran had sought a meeting in Doha on Tuesday. "IRAN HAS REQUESTED A MEETING. IT WILL TAKE PLACE TOMORROW IN DOHA!" Trump posted on his Truth Social platform on Monday, without specifying the participants. Later, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that US envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner "will be flying to Doha for high-level meetings this week". Also Read: 'Desperate acts of violence': India strongly condemns Pakistan air strikes on Afghanistan killing civilians Iran and Oman discuss the Strait of Hormuz Meanwhile, Iran's foreign ministry said it held its first meeting with Oman on Monday to discuss the management of the Strait of Hormuz after Tehran and Washington signed their preliminary agreement aimed at ending the Middle East war. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the Joint Hormuz Committee met during his visit to Muscat. "During a trip to Muscat, the first meeting of the Joint Hormuz Committee was held," said Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi on X. "While reviewing the current issues related to the strait, we exchanged views on the future management," he added. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway separating Iran and Oman, has remained a major issue in discussions between Tehran and Washington. Iran is considering introducing service fees that did not exist before the war, while the United States opposes such charges, arguing the strait is an international waterway. Separately, France and Oman said in a joint statement issued after a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq that they would conduct joint demining operations. Responding to the announcement, Gharibabadi insisted that only Iran would carry out demining activities under the agreement. "The situation is sensitive and complex. We strongly advise France not to complicate it further with its provocations," Gharibabadi wrote.

Iranian Foreign Ministry said the expert delegation would travel to Doha this week to discuss the implementation of the memorandum signed on June 17, while stressing that no negotiations on a final agreement or meetings with US officials were scheduled.

Iran says 'expert delegation' heads to Qatar this week, rejects Trump's claim of US talks

President Trump said Tuesday that Iran had "fully and completely" agreed to allow nuclear inspections, but Tehran said there were "no plans" for IAEA inspectors to return to its bombed enrichment sites. Vice President JD Vance said Monday that U.N. inspectors could return as soon as this week.


Trump Says Iran Agreed for Inspection at Bombed Nuclear Site, Iran Rejects Claim

Lebanon is the key sticking point in the currently ongoing Iran-US peace talks as Tehran insists that Israel must end military operations on all fronts, including that country. Israel has repeatedly targeted the Shia group Hezbollah's alleged strongholds in southern Lebanon, killing dozens, which Lebanese authorities describe as civilians and Israel calls terrorists. Despite killing Hezbollah's long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah and carrying out extensive air and ground operations in southern Lebanon for months, Israel has not been able to eliminate the group, which is backed as a proxy by regional Shia power Iran. Why is it so difficult to defeat Hezbollah?<h2>Armed and legitimate: Why Hezbollah survives</h2>Hezbollah's strength comes from both the battle effectiveness of its armed wing and its political legitimacy in parts of Lebanon. Contrary to much Western media coverage, Hezbollah is not a rag-tag group of mercenaries or militants. Over the past four decades, it evolved into a political party, social welfare provider, military force and ideological movement deeply rooted in Lebanon's Shia communities. While military action can weaken it, the social and political foundations that sustain Hezbollah are much harder to remove.<h2>Lebanon's demography makes Hezbollah hard to replace</h2>Lebanon is a mosaic of religious and sectarian diversity. Muslims make up about 69 per cent of the population, while Christians account for around 30 per cent. Within the Muslim population, Shias constitute roughly 31-32 per cent, making them one of the country's largest communities and Hezbollah's principal support base. Hezbollah's strongest areas remain southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs.Because Lebanon's political system is built around balancing sectarian interests, removing a movement that represents a substantial portion of one of the country's largest communities is far more complicated than defeating a conventional armed group. Let us explore this further.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-hezbollah-agree-to-ceasefire-starting-friday-after-latest-flare-up-says-report-citing-us-official-1781877376072">Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official</a><h2>Hezbollah's integration into Lebanon's political system</h2>Hezbollah contests elections and holds parliamentary seats through its political arm, the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, led by veteran MP Mohammad Raad. The bloc currently holds 15 seats in Lebanon's 128-member parliament. Hezbollah has also been part of coalition governments and continues to influence national decision-making.This is enabled by Lebanon's unique political system, which is a response to its population realities. Lebanon has a sectarian power-sharing arrangement under the National Pact of 1943 and the Taif Agreement of 1989. Political offices are distributed among religious communities: the President must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament a Shia Muslim. In electoral politics, Lebanon's political system seeks to provide representation to the country's different communities. The 128 parliamentary seats are constitutionally divided 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, and then subdivided among 'confessions' like Maronite Christian, Sunni, Shia, Druze, and Greek Orthodox, with predetermined quotas. Election candidates must belong to the sect of the seat they are running for. This ‘confessional’ system allows Hezbollah to contest and win elections through its political arm.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-impact-will-israel-hezbollah-truce-have-on-us-iran-talks-and-the-global-economy-wion-decodes-1781954323882">What impact will Israel-Hezbollah truce have on US-Iran talks and the global economy? WION Decodes</a><h2>Hezbollah's social role as a community provider is its strength</h2>For its supporters, Hezbollah is not simply an armed group, but a provider of security and essential social services. The organisation provides services that the Lebanese state often struggles to deliver, particularly in Shia-majority areas such as southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. It operates schools, clinics, charities and reconstruction programmes. Financial assistance and welfare networks of Hezbollah have helped build long-term loyalty among its support base.<h2>Hezbollah as a constant "resistance" force against Israel</h2>Hezbollah long portrayed itself as the defender of Lebanese territory, particularly against Israel. Its "resistance" narrative gained prominence during Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000, which began during the 1982 Lebanon War with Israel, and was reinforced by subsequent conflicts, including the 2006 Lebanon War. While many Sunni Muslims, Christians and Druze oppose Hezbollah's military role and its close ties to Iran, significant sections of the Shia community continue to view it as a deterrent against Israel.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed</a><h2>Hezbollah's military strength: A comparison with official defence forces of Lebanon</h2>Constant confrontation with Israel has made Hezbollah a battle-hardened force. It has built fortified positions, underground facilities, tunnel networks and large missile stockpiles over the decades. Its command structure is highly decentralised, as proven by its ability to continue operating despite repeated Israeli decapitation strikes on senior leaders like Hassan Nasrallah. Assessments by the Institute for the Study of War noted that such guerrilla-style capabilities make a decisive military victory difficult. Hezbollah has repeatedly shown an ability to rebuild, regroup and continue fighting after major setbacks.Lebanon's official armed forces, on the other hand, are relatively weak compared with regional militaries. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have a modest army and limited air and naval capabilities, relying largely on light aircraft, helicopters and patrol vessels. Unlike Hezbollah, the Lebanese military lacks a significant missile arsenal, and is mostly focused on internal security and border protection rather than conventional or asymmetric warfare.<h2>Hezbollah may be weakened, but not defeated</h2>The Lebanese state has repeatedly failed to disarm Hezbollah. Successive governments and state institutions generally avoided direct confrontation with the group, fearing sectarian conflict and political fragmentation.As noted by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), lasting disarmament of Hezbollah would require broad Lebanese political consensus and a much stronger state, both of which remain absent. Hezbollah endures because it is embedded not only in military structures, but also in Lebanese society, politics and local institutions. Military pressure from Israel can weaken the organisation, but eliminating it altogether is a far more complex.

Hezbollah survives and fights in Lebanon despite Israeli military operations and decapitation strikes over months. The Iran-backed group remains influential due to its social welfare role and Shia support base. But those are not the only reasons

Lebanon is the key sticking point in the currently ongoing Iran-US peace talks as Tehran insists that Israel must end military operations on all fronts, including that country. Israel has repeatedly targeted the Shia group Hezbollah's alleged strongholds in southern Lebanon, killing dozens, which Lebanese authorities describe as civilians and Israel calls terrorists. Despite killing Hezbollah's long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah and carrying out extensive air and ground operations in southern Lebanon for months, Israel has not been able to eliminate the group, which is backed as a proxy by regional Shia power Iran. Why is it so difficult to defeat Hezbollah? Armed and legitimate: Why Hezbollah survives Hezbollah's strength comes from both the battle effectiveness of its armed wing and its political legitimacy in parts of Lebanon. Contrary to much Western media coverage, Hezbollah is not a rag-tag group of mercenaries or militants. Over the past four decades, it evolved into a political party, social welfare provider, military force and ideological movement deeply rooted in Lebanon's Shia communities. While military action can weaken it, the social and political foundations that sustain Hezbollah are much harder to remove. Lebanon's demography makes Hezbollah hard to replace Lebanon is a mosaic of religious and sectarian diversity. Muslims make up about 69 per cent of the population, while Christians account for around 30 per cent. Within the Muslim population, Shias constitute roughly 31-32 per cent, making them one of the country's largest communities and Hezbollah's principal support base. Hezbollah's strongest areas remain southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. Because Lebanon's political system is built around balancing sectarian interests, removing a movement that represents a substantial portion of one of the country's largest communities is far more complicated than defeating a conventional armed group. Let us explore this further. Also read: Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official Hezbollah's integration into Lebanon's political system Hezbollah contests elections and holds parliamentary seats through its political arm, the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, led by veteran MP Mohammad Raad. The bloc currently holds 15 seats in Lebanon's 128-member parliament. Hezbollah has also been part of coalition governments and continues to influence national decision-making. This is enabled by Lebanon's unique political system, which is a response to its population realities. Lebanon has a sectarian power-sharing arrangement under the National Pact of 1943 and the Taif Agreement of 1989. Political offices are distributed among religious communities: the President must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament a Shia Muslim. In electoral politics, Lebanon's political system seeks to provide representation to the country's different communities. The 128 parliamentary seats are constitutionally divided 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, and then subdivided among 'confessions' like Maronite Christian, Sunni, Shia, Druze, and Greek Orthodox, with predetermined quotas. Election candidates must belong to the sect of the seat they are running for. This ‘confessional’ system allows Hezbollah to contest and win elections through its political arm. Also read: What impact will Israel-Hezbollah truce have on US-Iran talks and the global economy? WION Decodes Hezbollah's social role as a community provider is its strength For its supporters, Hezbollah is not simply an armed group, but a provider of security and essential social services. The organisation provides services that the Lebanese state often struggles to deliver, particularly in Shia-majority areas such as southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley and Beirut's southern suburbs. It operates schools, clinics, charities and reconstruction programmes. Financial assistance and welfare networks of Hezbollah have helped build long-term loyalty among its support base. Hezbollah as a constant "resistance" force against Israel Hezbollah long portrayed itself as the defender of Lebanese territory, particularly against Israel. Its "resistance" narrative gained prominence during Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000, which began during the 1982 Lebanon War with Israel, and was reinforced by subsequent conflicts, including the 2006 Lebanon War. While many Sunni Muslims, Christians and Druze oppose Hezbollah's military role and its close ties to Iran, significant sections of the Shia community continue to view it as a deterrent against Israel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-plan-to-let-syria-handle-hezbollah-in-trouble-al-sharaa-refuses-to-fight-1782146527266/embed Hezbollah's military strength: A comparison with official defence forces of Lebanon Constant confrontation with Israel has made Hezbollah a battle-hardened force. It has built fortified positions, underground facilities, tunnel networks and large missile stockpiles over the decades. Its command structure is highly decentralised, as proven by its ability to continue operating despite repeated Israeli decapitation strikes on senior leaders like Hassan Nasrallah. Assessments by the Institute for the Study of War noted that such guerrilla-style capabilities make a decisive military victory difficult. Hezbollah has repeatedly shown an ability to rebuild, regroup and continue fighting after major setbacks. Lebanon's official armed forces, on the other hand, are relatively weak compared with regional militaries. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have a modest army and limited air and naval capabilities, relying largely on light aircraft, helicopters and patrol vessels. Unlike Hezbollah, the Lebanese military lacks a significant missile arsenal, and is mostly focused on internal security and border protection rather than conventional or asymmetric warfare. Hezbollah may be weakened, but not defeated The Lebanese state has repeatedly failed to disarm Hezbollah. Successive governments and state institutions generally avoided direct confrontation with the group, fearing sectarian conflict and political fragmentation. As noted by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), lasting disarmament of Hezbollah would require broad Lebanese political consensus and a much stronger state, both of which remain absent. Hezbollah endures because it is embedded not only in military structures, but also in Lebanese society, politics and local institutions. Military pressure from Israel can weaken the organisation, but eliminating it altogether is a far more complex.

Hezbollah survives and fights in Lebanon despite Israeli military operations and decapitation strikes over months. The Iran-backed group remains influential due to its social welfare role and Shia support base. But those are not the only reasons

Why is Hezbollah's defeat not so easy for Israel? Shia group is deeply embedded in Lebanon | The Big Question

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf spoke to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Tuesday (June 2) about continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and said that it could affect the ongoing peace process with Washington. This comes two days after Ghalibaf said that Tehran will not agree to any deal with the United States that fails to secure the rights of Iranians. Terming the attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon as ceasefire violation, Iran on Monday said that it has stopped exchanging messages with the US through intermediaries, its state-affiliated outlet Tasnim News Agency reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-eternity-trump-says-israel-hezbollah-agreed-to-stop-fighting-but-fresh-projectiles-from-lebanon-raise-doubts-1780362414089">'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting</a>&nbsp;In a post on X after conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker, Ghalibaf said, “I emphasised that if the crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon continue, we will not only halt the dialogue process but also stand firmly against them.” He concluded the message by declaring: “Long live the resistance! Long live the defence of the motherland! Long live the brotherhood of the Iranian and Lebanese peoples!” Ghalibaf in a video broadcast on state television, said, “We will not approve any agreement until we are certain that the rights of the Iranian people have been upheld. Iranian negotiators neither trust the enemy's words nor its promises.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">بحديثي مع أخي دولة الرئيس نبيه برّي، أكّدت إنّه إذا استمرّ العدوان الإسرائيلي على لبنان، مش بس رح نوقّف مسار التفاوض، بل رح نكون بمواجهة مباشرة مع العدو. عاشت المقاومة. عاش الدفاع عن الأرض. وعاشت الأخوّة بين الشعبين اللبناني والإیراني.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2061570660871073850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-are-continuing-at-rapid-pace-with-iran-says-trump-amid-fragile-peace-talks-1780344771829">'Talks are continuing at rapid pace with Iran', says Trump amid fragile peace talks</a><h2>The Lebanon issue</h2>Explaining its stance on Lebanon, Iran said that an Israeli ceasefire in Lebanon was a precondition for the ceasefire between Iran and the US. It must be noted that when ceasefire deal was finalised between the two sides after talks in Pakistan, Israel claimed that Lebanon was not included and Tehran pressed that it was very much a part of the deal. This led to further blockage of Strait of Hormuz and complicated the situation. After Israel stepped up attack in Lebanon this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in a post on X emphasized that Lebanon is included in the ceasefire with the US and that any violation on one front “shall be considered a violation of it across all fronts." “The United States and Israel bear responsibility for the consequences of any breach of the truce,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed</a>&nbsp;Iran finds itself shielding Hezbollah ​in Lebanon as the group was founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982 and is widely seen to be working as Tehran's proxy in the region. In its previous proposal, the Trump administration reportedly mentioned that ending Iran's proxy activities and disarmament of Hezbollah as key points to achieve a peace agreement.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran warned that continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon could derail ongoing talks with the US. Chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran may halt dialogue, while Iran accused Washington and Israel of violating the ceasefire and threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf spoke to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Tuesday (June 2) about continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and said that it could affect the ongoing peace process with Washington. This comes two days after Ghalibaf said that Tehran will not agree to any deal with the United States that fails to secure the rights of Iranians. Terming the attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon as ceasefire violation, Iran on Monday said that it has stopped exchanging messages with the US through intermediaries, its state-affiliated outlet Tasnim News Agency reported. Also Read: 'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting In a post on X after conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker, Ghalibaf said, “I emphasised that if the crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon continue, we will not only halt the dialogue process but also stand firmly against them.” He concluded the message by declaring: “Long live the resistance! Long live the defence of the motherland! Long live the brotherhood of the Iranian and Lebanese peoples!” Ghalibaf in a video broadcast on state television, said, “We will not approve any agreement until we are certain that the rights of the Iranian people have been upheld. Iranian negotiators neither trust the enemy's words nor its promises.”

Iran warned that continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon could derail ongoing talks with the US. Chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran may halt dialogue, while Iran accused Washington and Israel of violating the ceasefire and threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

'We stand firmly...': Iran warns of 'direct confrontation' if Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue

Iran says it will join talks in Islamabad only if the US ends its naval blockade, calling it a ceasefire violation. As Trump extends the truce, Tehran remains sceptical, citing shifting US demands, while tensions rise and uncertainty surrounds peace negotiations.

If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension

Amid reports of a possible talks between Israel and Lebanon, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Wednesday (Apr 15) has said that it has been possible due to Tehran’s insistence on such a truce being part of the one reached between the US and the Islamic Republic. Ghalibaf was hinting at Iran's conditions for ceasefire with US, in which it said that Israel should stop offensive against Hezbollah in Iran. Israel attacked Hezbollah after it stepped into the war between Iran, US and Israel, vowing to avenge the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Ghalibaf's reaction came as US President Donald Trump, in a Truth Social post, confirmed that Israeli and Lebanese authorities will speak to each other on Thursday (Apr 16).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-to-uphold-ceasefire-commitment-pakistan-breaks-silence-after-inconclusive-iran-us-talks-in-islamabad-1775969883662">'To uphold ceasefire commitment': Pakistan breaks silence after inconclusive Iran-US talks in Islamabad</a>&nbsp;Ghalibaf said, “The completion and consolidation of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon will be the result of the resistance and steadfast struggle of the great Hezbollah and the unity of the Axis of Resistance,” Ghalibaf says in a statement posted to X. “The United States must comply with the agreement. Resistance and Iran are one soul, both in war and in ceasefire. America should withdraw from ‘Israel First’ mistake,” he added. Hezbollah was founded in 1982 by a group of Lebanese Shia clerics and militants, with significant support from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-issues-first-warning-to-iran-after-ceasefire-wants-real-agreement-to-be-followed-lebanon-tension-shooting-stars-will-1775707794596">'Shooting stars will...': Trump issues first warning to Iran after ceasefire, wants 'REAL AGREEMENT' to be followed</a><h2>Lebanon issue in Iran-US ceasefire</h2>Iran, while announcing the ceasefire on Apr 7, said that the POTUS has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. The 10 point proposal by Iran clearly included end of hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also said that both sides have agreed to a ceasefire "everywhere", including Lebanon. However, there was no mention of Lebanon in the statement by the US. This came into limelight when Israeli PM Netanyahu stated that the ceasefire "did not cover Lebanon." Soon, US followed Israeli narrative with US President Trump warning Iran to honour the “real agreement" and US Vice President JD Vance asking if Iranian delegation understands English properly. Ghalibaf has been leading the negotiations with the US on behalf of Iran and Vance from the US side.

Iranian Speaker Ghalibaf said Lebanon-Israel talks stem from Tehran’s ceasefire conditions tied to US-Iran negotiations, insisting Israel halt actions against Hezbollah. Trump confirmed Israel-Lebanon talks, while disputes continue over ceasefire scope and regional tensions.

Amid reports of a possible talks between Israel and Lebanon, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Wednesday (Apr 15) has said that it has been possible due to Tehran’s insistence on such a truce being part of the one reached between the US and the Islamic Republic. Ghalibaf was hinting at Iran's conditions for ceasefire with US, in which it said that Israel should stop offensive against Hezbollah in Iran. Israel attacked Hezbollah after it stepped into the war between Iran, US and Israel, vowing to avenge the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Ghalibaf's reaction came as US President Donald Trump, in a Truth Social post, confirmed that Israeli and Lebanese authorities will speak to each other on Thursday (Apr 16). Also Read: 'To uphold ceasefire commitment': Pakistan breaks silence after inconclusive Iran-US talks in Islamabad Ghalibaf said, “The completion and consolidation of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon will be the result of the resistance and steadfast struggle of the great Hezbollah and the unity of the Axis of Resistance,” Ghalibaf says in a statement posted to X. “The United States must comply with the agreement. Resistance and Iran are one soul, both in war and in ceasefire. America should withdraw from ‘Israel First’ mistake,” he added. Hezbollah was founded in 1982 by a group of Lebanese Shia clerics and militants, with significant support from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Also Read: 'Shooting stars will...': Trump issues first warning to Iran after ceasefire, wants 'REAL AGREEMENT' to be followed Lebanon issue in Iran-US ceasefire Iran, while announcing the ceasefire on Apr 7, said that the POTUS has accepted the general framework of Iran's 10-point proposal. The 10 point proposal by Iran clearly included end of hostilities on Hezbollah in Lebanon. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also said that both sides have agreed to a ceasefire "everywhere", including Lebanon. However, there was no mention of Lebanon in the statement by the US. This came into limelight when Israeli PM Netanyahu stated that the ceasefire "did not cover Lebanon." Soon, US followed Israeli narrative with US President Trump warning Iran to honour the “real agreement" and US Vice President JD Vance asking if Iranian delegation understands English properly. Ghalibaf has been leading the negotiations with the US on behalf of Iran and Vance from the US side.

Iranian Speaker Ghalibaf said Lebanon-Israel talks stem from Tehran’s ceasefire conditions tied to US-Iran negotiations, insisting Israel halt actions against Hezbollah. Trump confirmed Israel-Lebanon talks, while disputes continue over ceasefire scope and regional tensions.

'Iran and Axis of Resistance are one soul': Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf's message for 'great Hezbollah' amid Israel-Lebanon talks

Donald Trump said Iran is “desperate” as reports suggest the US may resume limited strikes and tighten pressure. Talks stalled over strict US demands, while Iran accused Washington of shifting goalposts and “totalitarianism.”

Iran-US war to reignite again? Trump says 'I don't care'; reports claim he may be planning 'limited' strikes

US President Donald Trump on Sunday announced that the United States Navy will begin blocking ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, citing Iran’s “unyielding" stance on its nuclear ambitions during recent peace talks in Islamabad.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter or leave the Strait Of Hormuz."

Trump Announces Blockade o Iranian Ports After Failed Iran-US Truce Talks in Islamabad

Talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad ended without a deal despite being “inches away.” Disputes over nuclear limits and U.S. demands stalled progress, while Pakistan urged both sides to maintain the ceasefire and continue dialogue.

Iran-US was 'inches away from deal' in Pakistan? Araghchi reveals what exactly stalled negotiations

Iran has mounted a sharp rebuttal to comments by US Vice President JD Vance, who said Washington had “not heard a positive Iranian commitment regarding nuclear weapons”, by publicly listing what it described as years of constructive engagement and restraint. In a post shared by the Iranian embassy in Japan on X, Tehran pointed to a series of diplomatic efforts and international assessments that, it argued, demonstrate its willingness to resolve the long-running nuclear dispute.&nbsp;At the centre of Iran’s response was the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, widely known as the JCPOA, which Tehran described as a “functioning deal” that was unilaterally abandoned by the United States. Iran has long maintained that the collapse of the agreement undermined trust and derailed a workable framework for limiting its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.&nbsp;The embassy also highlighted what it called Iran’s “good faith” efforts in 2025, claiming that it had shown clear intent to conclude negotiations with Washington in June that year. According to the statement, those efforts were disrupted by what it termed a “war of aggression” involving the United States and Israel, a claim that reflects Tehran’s broader narrative around recent regional tensions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-outcome-depends-on-us-changing-unreasonable-demands-iran-after-vance-announces-bad-news-of-failed-talks-in-islamabad-1775961905726">‘Outcome depends on US changing unreasonable demands’: Iran after Vance announces ‘bad news’ of failed talks in Islamabad</a>&nbsp;Iran further underscored its continued engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency, citing ongoing cooperation and references to arrangements such as the Cairo Agreement. It is alleged that European parties ultimately failed to sustain those initiatives, contributing to diplomatic setbacks.&nbsp;Another key point raised was Iran’s participation in talks mediated by Oman. The embassy said negotiations had come close to a breakthrough, citing remarks by Omani officials, before collapsing. It added that the Director General of the IAEA had been involved and that both sides were expected to meet at the agency’s headquarters to finalise a framework before the process unravelled.&nbsp;Tehran also pointed to repeated assessments by the IAEA, asserting that the agency has not concluded that Iran is developing a nuclear weapon. In addition, it referenced findings by US intelligence agencies, including National Intelligence Estimates, which it said indicate Iran is not actively pursuing nuclear arms.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/caught-in-the-middle-pakistan-s-worst-case-scenario-unfolds-after-us-iran-talks-collapse-1775976829772">Caught in the Middle: Pakistan’s worst-case scenario unfolds after US-Iran talks collapse</a>&nbsp;In a further attempt to bolster its position, Iran cited a longstanding religious decree, or fatwa, issued by its late Supreme Leader prohibiting the development and use of nuclear weapons. Iranian officials have consistently argued that this doctrine forms a core part of the country’s defence policy.

Iran rejected JD Vance’s claim, citing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, IAEA cooperation, Oman talks, and intelligence reports to assert it is not pursuing nuclear weapons.

Iran has mounted a sharp rebuttal to comments by US Vice President JD Vance, who said Washington had “not heard a positive Iranian commitment regarding nuclear weapons”, by publicly listing what it described as years of constructive engagement and restraint. In a post shared by the Iranian embassy in Japan on X, Tehran pointed to a series of diplomatic efforts and international assessments that, it argued, demonstrate its willingness to resolve the long-running nuclear dispute. At the centre of Iran’s response was the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, widely known as the JCPOA, which Tehran described as a “functioning deal” that was unilaterally abandoned by the United States. Iran has long maintained that the collapse of the agreement undermined trust and derailed a workable framework for limiting its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. The embassy also highlighted what it called Iran’s “good faith” efforts in 2025, claiming that it had shown clear intent to conclude negotiations with Washington in June that year. According to the statement, those efforts were disrupted by what it termed a “war of aggression” involving the United States and Israel, a claim that reflects Tehran’s broader narrative around recent regional tensions. Also read: ‘Outcome depends on US changing unreasonable demands’: Iran after Vance announces ‘bad news’ of failed talks in Islamabad Iran further underscored its continued engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency, citing ongoing cooperation and references to arrangements such as the Cairo Agreement. It is alleged that European parties ultimately failed to sustain those initiatives, contributing to diplomatic setbacks. Another key point raised was Iran’s participation in talks mediated by Oman. The embassy said negotiations had come close to a breakthrough, citing remarks by Omani officials, before collapsing. It added that the Director General of the IAEA had been involved and that both sides were expected to meet at the agency’s headquarters to finalise a framework before the process unravelled. Tehran also pointed to repeated assessments by the IAEA, asserting that the agency has not concluded that Iran is developing a nuclear weapon. In addition, it referenced findings by US intelligence agencies, including National Intelligence Estimates, which it said indicate Iran is not actively pursuing nuclear arms. Also read: Caught in the Middle: Pakistan’s worst-case scenario unfolds after US-Iran talks collapse In a further attempt to bolster its position, Iran cited a longstanding religious decree, or fatwa, issued by its late Supreme Leader prohibiting the development and use of nuclear weapons. Iranian officials have consistently argued that this doctrine forms a core part of the country’s defence policy.

Iran rejected JD Vance’s claim, citing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, IAEA cooperation, Oman talks, and intelligence reports to assert it is not pursuing nuclear weapons.

Iran pushes back after Vance remark, cites record of ‘good faith’ on nuclear issue. Details inside

Somewhere in Islamabad on Saturday, two teams of diplomats sat across a table for twenty-one hours. They drank tea, exchanged papers, made phone calls, and argued through the night. And at the end of it all, they walked away with nothing. No deal. No breakthrough. Just a fragile ceasefire that now hangs by a thread — and millions of ordinary families left wondering if the bombs will come back.&nbsp;That is the brutal arithmetic of the US-Iran talks that collapsed this weekend. And before we get into the political chess, we must sit with that human reality for a moment. This war is now in its seventh week. At least 3,000 people have been killed in Iran. Over 2,000 in Lebanon. Twenty-three in Israel. Homes reduced to rubble. Roads broken. Children are not going to school — not because of holidays, but because of fear. Mothers grieving. Fathers without work. Every day the ceasefire holds is a day those numbers don't climb. Every day it doesn't — they do.<h3>So what went wrong in Islamabad?</h3>Vice President JD Vance led the American side. He kept President Trump on speed dial — calling him six to twelve times during negotiations — while also coordinating with Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, and Admiral Brad Cooper. By all accounts, the Americans came prepared. Vance said the US team worked honestly, put their best and final offer on the table, and left it there. Now Iran must decide, he said. The language of a man who believes he did his part.But here is where it gets complicated. Because Iran did not walk away out of stubbornness or theatre. Iran walked away because of memory.&nbsp;The wound that poisons every US-Iran conversation is 2015. That year, under President Obama, a nuclear deal was carefully negotiated, signed, and celebrated. Three years later, America walked away from it under President Trump. Just like that. Sanctions snapped back. Iran was left holding a deal with no partner. When you have been burned that badly — when you watched a signed agreement dissolve because a new president decided differently — why would you trust the next set of promises? Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country came to Islamabad with "deep distrust." That is not a negotiating tactic. That is a scar.&nbsp;America, for its part, has a legitimate concern. It wants Iran to stop developing nuclear weapons and close off any fast pathways to building them. That is not an unreasonable demand for a region already at war. But demanding trust from someone you previously betrayed — and offering nothing concrete to address that betrayal — is not diplomacy. It is wishful thinking.&nbsp;What made the weekend even more telling was what happened in the water while the talks were happening on land. The US Navy sent two destroyer ships into the Strait of Hormuz to begin mine-clearing operations. Admiral Cooper announced that underwater drones would follow. President Trump posted about it on social media, framing it as a gift to the world's oil supply. It is, in diplomatic language, a carrot-and-stick moment — we are talking to you, but we are also showing you what happens if you say no.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz is not just a geography lesson. Normally, one-fifth of the world's oil passes through that narrow channel every single day. Since Iran tightened its grip, that flow has slowed to a trickle — roughly 12 ships a day instead of over 100. Oil prices are up. Fuel costs more. Groceries cost more. The ripple of this war reaches into supermarkets in countries that have never heard a missile.&nbsp;Iran's red lines in Islamabad were predictable but firm — compensation for damage from earlier strikes, release of frozen assets, an end to attacks on its allies, including Hezbollah, and control over the strait. America's offer focused on capping nuclear development and reopening shipping. The gap between those two positions was not a crack. It was a canyon.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel continued strikes in Lebanon — insisting no ceasefire applies there — pushing the death toll past 2,000. Direct Israel-Lebanon talks are now scheduled for Tuesday in Washington. Lebanon, exhausted and destabilised, needs calm. The wider region is holding its breath.<h3>So where does this go?</h3>Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has offered to mediate a second round. That matters. Pakistan is one of the few countries to which Iran genuinely listens. A short pause followed by a reset — perhaps with new security guarantees that address Iran's 2015 wound directly — is the only realistic path forward.&nbsp;The US would be wise to quietly extend the ceasefire while mine-clearing continues, maintaining pressure without triggering fresh conflict. Iran would be wise to hold its red lines but keep one door open — because a closed strait hurts its own people too. Twenty-one hours of talks failed. But the clock has not stopped. Peace is still on the table. Someone just needs the courage to sit back down.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-to-uphold-ceasefire-commitment-pakistan-breaks-silence-after-inconclusive-iran-us-talks-in-islamabad-1775969883662">'To uphold ceasefire commitment': Pakistan breaks silence after inconclusive Iran-US talks in Islamabad</a>

Vance said the US team worked honestly, put their best and final offer on the table, and left it there. Now Iran must decide, he said. The language of a man who believes he did his part.

Somewhere in Islamabad on Saturday, two teams of diplomats sat across a table for twenty-one hours. They drank tea, exchanged papers, made phone calls, and argued through the night. And at the end of it all, they walked away with nothing. No deal. No breakthrough. Just a fragile ceasefire that now hangs by a thread — and millions of ordinary families left wondering if the bombs will come back. That is the brutal arithmetic of the US-Iran talks that collapsed this weekend. And before we get into the political chess, we must sit with that human reality for a moment. This war is now in its seventh week. At least 3,000 people have been killed in Iran. Over 2,000 in Lebanon. Twenty-three in Israel. Homes reduced to rubble. Roads broken. Children are not going to school — not because of holidays, but because of fear. Mothers grieving. Fathers without work. Every day the ceasefire holds is a day those numbers don't climb. Every day it doesn't — they do. So what went wrong in Islamabad? Vice President JD Vance led the American side. He kept President Trump on speed dial — calling him six to twelve times during negotiations — while also coordinating with Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, and Admiral Brad Cooper. By all accounts, the Americans came prepared. Vance said the US team worked honestly, put their best and final offer on the table, and left it there. Now Iran must decide, he said. The language of a man who believes he did his part. But here is where it gets complicated. Because Iran did not walk away out of stubbornness or theatre. Iran walked away because of memory. The wound that poisons every US-Iran conversation is 2015. That year, under President Obama, a nuclear deal was carefully negotiated, signed, and celebrated. Three years later, America walked away from it under President Trump. Just like that. Sanctions snapped back. Iran was left holding a deal with no partner. When you have been burned that badly — when you watched a signed agreement dissolve because a new president decided differently — why would you trust the next set of promises? Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country came to Islamabad with "deep distrust." That is not a negotiating tactic. That is a scar. America, for its part, has a legitimate concern. It wants Iran to stop developing nuclear weapons and close off any fast pathways to building them. That is not an unreasonable demand for a region already at war. But demanding trust from someone you previously betrayed — and offering nothing concrete to address that betrayal — is not diplomacy. It is wishful thinking. What made the weekend even more telling was what happened in the water while the talks were happening on land. The US Navy sent two destroyer ships into the Strait of Hormuz to begin mine-clearing operations. Admiral Cooper announced that underwater drones would follow. President Trump posted about it on social media, framing it as a gift to the world's oil supply. It is, in diplomatic language, a carrot-and-stick moment — we are talking to you, but we are also showing you what happens if you say no. The Strait of Hormuz is not just a geography lesson. Normally, one-fifth of the world's oil passes through that narrow channel every single day. Since Iran tightened its grip, that flow has slowed to a trickle — roughly 12 ships a day instead of over 100. Oil prices are up. Fuel costs more. Groceries cost more. The ripple of this war reaches into supermarkets in countries that have never heard a missile. Iran's red lines in Islamabad were predictable but firm — compensation for damage from earlier strikes, release of frozen assets, an end to attacks on its allies, including Hezbollah, and control over the strait. America's offer focused on capping nuclear development and reopening shipping. The gap between those two positions was not a crack. It was a canyon. Meanwhile, Israel continued strikes in Lebanon — insisting no ceasefire applies there — pushing the death toll past 2,000. Direct Israel-Lebanon talks are now scheduled for Tuesday in Washington. Lebanon, exhausted and destabilised, needs calm. The wider region is holding its breath. So where does this go? Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has offered to mediate a second round. That matters. Pakistan is one of the few countries to which Iran genuinely listens. A short pause followed by a reset — perhaps with new security guarantees that address Iran's 2015 wound directly — is the only realistic path forward. The US would be wise to quietly extend the ceasefire while mine-clearing continues, maintaining pressure without triggering fresh conflict. Iran would be wise to hold its red lines but keep one door open — because a closed strait hurts its own people too. Twenty-one hours of talks failed. But the clock has not stopped. Peace is still on the table. Someone just needs the courage to sit back down. Also read: 'To uphold ceasefire commitment': Pakistan breaks silence after inconclusive Iran-US talks in Islamabad

Vance said the US team worked honestly, put their best and final offer on the table, and left it there. Now Iran must decide, he said. The language of a man who believes he did his part.

No deal in Islamabad: How 21 hours of diplomacy could not outlast decades of distrust

Pakistan's foreign minister and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, in his first response after Islamabad talks between US and Iran, on Sunday (Apr 12) said that Washington and Tehran must uphold a ceasefire agreement. He said that it is “imperative” for the parties continue to uphold their commitment. Pakistan hosted the talks and acted as a mediator. While the US said that no deal was reached, Tehran accused the American side for “unreasonable demands.”&nbsp;"I along with the Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir helped mediate several rounds of intense and constructive negotiations between the two sides, that continued through the last 24 hours and ended this morning. On behalf of Pakistan, I would like to express gratitude to the two sides for appreciating Pakistan's efforts to help achieve the ceasefire and its mediatory role. We hope that the two sides continue with the positive spirit to achieve durable peace and prosperity for the entire region and beyond. It is imperative that the parties continue to uphold their commitment to ceasefire. Pakistan has been and will continue to play its role to facilitate engagement and dialogue between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America in the days to come," Pakistan Foreign Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/where-was-us-president-trump-as-jd-vance-negotiated-with-iranians-in-pakistan-1775960909468">'Deal or not, no difference to me': Where was US President Trump as Vance negotiated with Iranians in Pakistan?</a><h2>What are the sticking points of the negotiations?</h2>According to Iranian Press TV, key sticking points included the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear rights, and other contentious issues. Lebanon has become a major bone of contention in the ceasefire announced earlier this week, as Israel insisted that the ceasefire does not affect its invasion of Lebanon, and Iran blocked the Hormuz again in response of massive Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-issues-two-word-response-to-report-of-china-shipping-weapons-to-iran-what-he-said-1775946151493">Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said</a><h2>What Vance said after negotiations?</h2>Holding a news conference in Islamabad, Pakistan, after trilateral in-person talks between the US and Iran, Vance said that no deal was struck. Vance suggested the primary sticking point was Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear program. “We leave here with a very simple proposal, a method of understanding that is our final and best offer,” he said. “We’ll see if the Iranians accept it.” “The simple fact is we need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon,” he said when asked about sticking points of the deal.<h2>What Iran said after negotiations?</h2>Iran issued several statements after negotiations. Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said that "unreasonable demands" by the United States failed the talks in Islamabad. Iran's foreign ministry said no one had held any expectation that talks with the United States could have reached an agreement within one session after the negotiations in Islamabad stalled on Sunday. Tehran also said that it is 'confident' its contact with Pakistan would continue.

Ishaq Dar urges United States and Iran to uphold ceasefire after Islamabad talks end without deal. Disputes over nuclear program and Strait of Hormuz stall progress.

Pakistan's foreign minister and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, in his first response after Islamabad talks between US and Iran, on Sunday (Apr 12) said that Washington and Tehran must uphold a ceasefire agreement. He said that it is “imperative” for the parties continue to uphold their commitment. Pakistan hosted the talks and acted as a mediator. While the US said that no deal was reached, Tehran accused the American side for “unreasonable demands.” "I along with the Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir helped mediate several rounds of intense and constructive negotiations between the two sides, that continued through the last 24 hours and ended this morning. On behalf of Pakistan, I would like to express gratitude to the two sides for appreciating Pakistan's efforts to help achieve the ceasefire and its mediatory role. We hope that the two sides continue with the positive spirit to achieve durable peace and prosperity for the entire region and beyond. It is imperative that the parties continue to uphold their commitment to ceasefire. Pakistan has been and will continue to play its role to facilitate engagement and dialogue between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America in the days to come," Pakistan Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Also Read: 'Deal or not, no difference to me': Where was US President Trump as Vance negotiated with Iranians in Pakistan? What are the sticking points of the negotiations? According to Iranian Press TV, key sticking points included the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear rights, and other contentious issues. Lebanon has become a major bone of contention in the ceasefire announced earlier this week, as Israel insisted that the ceasefire does not affect its invasion of Lebanon, and Iran blocked the Hormuz again in response of massive Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon. Also Read: Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said What Vance said after negotiations? Holding a news conference in Islamabad, Pakistan, after trilateral in-person talks between the US and Iran, Vance said that no deal was struck. Vance suggested the primary sticking point was Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear program. “We leave here with a very simple proposal, a method of understanding that is our final and best offer,” he said. “We’ll see if the Iranians accept it.” “The simple fact is we need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon,” he said when asked about sticking points of the deal. What Iran said after negotiations? Iran issued several statements after negotiations. Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said that "unreasonable demands" by the United States failed the talks in Islamabad. Iran's foreign ministry said no one had held any expectation that talks with the United States could have reached an agreement within one session after the negotiations in Islamabad stalled on Sunday. Tehran also said that it is 'confident' its contact with Pakistan would continue.

Ishaq Dar urges United States and Iran to uphold ceasefire after Islamabad talks end without deal. Disputes over nuclear program and Strait of Hormuz stall progress.

'To uphold ceasefire commitment': Pakistan breaks silence after inconclusive Iran-US talks in Islamabad

JD Vance confirms no deal as United States–Iran talks in Islamabad end without breakthrough. Donald Trump remains in touch but attends event in Florida, as nuclear dispute stalls negotiations.

'Deal or not, no difference to me': Where was US President Trump as Vance negotiated with Iranians in Pakistan?

US Vide President JD Vance on Sunday (Apr 12), after 15-hour marathon talks with Iranian delegation, addressed the media in Pakistan's Islamabad and informed that no agreement has been reached. He said that the United States delegation led by him is leaving talks in Islamabad without an agreement, and blamed Iran for rejecting key terms. He said Washington has not seen sufficient willingness from Tehran to halt uranium enrichment and is seeking affirmative assurances that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons. Vance also added that the US had remained flexible throughout the discussions and has now presented, what he described as a final proposal.&nbsp;This comes after Iran Foreign Ministry said that diplomacy remained central to its strategy as it concluded intensive negotiations in Islamabad. The ministry said talks with United States covered key issues including the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear matters, sanctions relief, and war-related grievances. It stressed that Iran is determined to defend its national interests and historical rights while continuing diplomacy. It also insisted progress depends on the other side’s seriousness, good faith, and acceptance of Iran’s legitimate concerns and demands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-issues-two-word-response-to-report-of-china-shipping-weapons-to-iran-what-he-said-1775946151493">Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said</a>

<h2>What JD Vance said?</h2>Holding a news conference in Islamabad, Pakistan, after trilateral in-person talks between the US and Iran in presence of Pakistan, Vance said, “We were quite accommodating. The president told us, ‘You need to come here in good faith and make your best effort to get a deal.’ We did that, and unfortunately, we weren’t able to make make any headway." Vance suggested the primary sticking point was Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear program. “We leave here with a very simple proposal, a method of understanding that is our final and best offer,” he said. “We’ll see if the Iranians accept it.”&nbsp;“The simple fact is we need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon,” he said when asked about sticking points of the deal.&nbsp;Vance also added that he spoke with President Donald Trump “consistently” during trilateral talks with Iran in Pakistan. He added that he was in touch with other top US officials throughout the negotiations, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, and Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command. “Obviously, we were talking to the president consistently. I don’t know how many times we talked to him, a half-dozen times, a dozen times over the past 21 hours,” Vance told reporters in Islamabad. “We were constantly in communication with the team because we were negotiating in good faith,” Vance added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-negotiation-pause-in-islamabad-after-15-hour-marathon-talks-to-continue-on-sunday-amid-disagreements-1775942502136">Iran-US negotiation pause in Islamabad after 15-hour marathon talks, to continue on Sunday amid disagreements</a><h2>How Iran reacted to Vance's comment?</h2>Iran's Tasnim News Agency said, in its government first reaction to Vances remark, “Negotiations between the Iranian and American teams ended a few minutes ago, and the two sides have not yet reached an agreement due to America's excesses and ambitions." Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry in a statement said, “We have not forgotten and will not forget the experiences of America's breaches of promise and malicious acts. Just as we will not forgive the heinous crimes committed by them and the Zionist regime during the course of the second and third imposed wars.” Iran confirmed that discussions were held on the Strait of Hormuz, the nuclear issue, war reparations, lifting of sanctions, and the complete end to the war against Iran and in the region. Iran also said that the success of this diplomatic process depends on the “seriousness and good faith of the opposing side, refraining from excessive demands and unlawful requests, and the acceptance of Iran's legitimate rights and interests.”<h2>What Trump said ahead of Vance's statement?</h2>US President Donald Trump said on Saturday (Apr 11), while leaving to Florida, that he was not bothered about the outcome of US-Iran talks in Pakistan, insisting the United States had come out ahead from the war. “Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me. The reason is because we've won…We're in very deep negotiations with Iran. We win regardless. We've defeated them militarily,” Trump told reporters.

JD Vance says US leaves Islamabad talks without deal after 15-hour negotiations with Iran, citing nuclear disputes. Iran blames US excess demands as diplomacy continues on sanctions, nuclear issue, and regional security.

US Vide President JD Vance on Sunday (Apr 12), after 15-hour marathon talks with Iranian delegation, addressed the media in Pakistan's Islamabad and informed that no agreement has been reached. He said that the United States delegation led by him is leaving talks in Islamabad without an agreement, and blamed Iran for rejecting key terms. He said Washington has not seen sufficient willingness from Tehran to halt uranium enrichment and is seeking affirmative assurances that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons. Vance also added that the US had remained flexible throughout the discussions and has now presented, what he described as a final proposal. This comes after Iran Foreign Ministry said that diplomacy remained central to its strategy as it concluded intensive negotiations in Islamabad. The ministry said talks with United States covered key issues including the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear matters, sanctions relief, and war-related grievances. It stressed that Iran is determined to defend its national interests and historical rights while continuing diplomacy. It also insisted progress depends on the other side’s seriousness, good faith, and acceptance of Iran’s legitimate concerns and demands. Also Read: Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said

JD Vance says US leaves Islamabad talks without deal after 15-hour negotiations with Iran, citing nuclear disputes. Iran blames US excess demands as diplomacy continues on sanctions, nuclear issue, and regional security.

Vance and co to leave Pakistan without Iran deal: 'Final offer' presented, nuclear deadlock continues

Talks between the United States and Iran ended after 15-hours and are set to resume in Pakistan's Islamabad later on Sunday (April 12), Iranian media reported. The White House said that the talks went on for 15 hours and more. Several reports indicated that the Iranian media contingent has left the venue in Islamabad. A Pakistani official told AFP talks were "progressing in the right direction". According to reports, the Iranian and US officials were meeting directly, alongside Pakistan, and not speaking through mediators.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-iran-s-nuclear-and-missile-programmes-crushed-as-talks-underway-in-islamabad-1775935937951">Netanyahu says Iran's nuclear and missile programmes ‘crushed’ as talks underway in Islamabad</a><h2>Iran's statement on the talks</h2>The statement quoted by Tasnim news agency and Mehr said, “End of 15-hour marathon talks on first day of Iran-US talks in Islamabad.” Both the statements added that the next round of negotiations will be held after sunrise. Iran's state TV earlier said that the talks will continue on Sunday as both the countries did not reach any understanding on their differences in the last round of talks. They assured that negotiations are in place despite differences. In the last round of talks, the Iran's government said that technical teams from both the countries are exchanging “expert texts." Iran also accused the United States of making "excessive demands" on the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil transits.&nbsp;Earlier, Iranian government said that talks between Iran and the US in Islamabad took place in presence of economic, military, legal, and nuclear committees. It confirmed that negotiations at Islamabad's Serena Hotel included the restriction of strikes in Lebanon, and the US agreement to release Iranian assets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-issues-two-word-response-to-report-of-china-shipping-weapons-to-iran-what-he-said-1775946151493">Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said</a><h2>Iran-US talks in Pakistan</h2>Amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Strait of Hormuz, despite the two-weeks ceasefire, US Vice President JD Vance became the highest-ranking American to meet directly with Iranian officials since the 1979 Islamic revolution. He was accompanied by Trump's real-estate friend Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner. In the Pakistani capital Islamabad, Iranian delegation was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.&nbsp;While Ghalibaf, speaking shortly after landing in Pakistan, said that Iran remained highly suspicious of the United States, Vance said before leaving the United States that if Iran was "willing to negotiate in good faith, we're certainly willing to extend the open hand". He addeed that the United States would not be receptive “if they're going to try to play us.” Lebanon has become a major bone of contention in the ceasefire announced earlier this week, as Israel insisted that the ceasefire does not affect its invasion of Lebanon, and Iran blocked the Hormuz again in response of massive Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon.

US–Iran peace talks in Islamabad end without breakthrough after 14 hours. Iran and United States continue negotiations with technical teams exchanging proposals, as Pakistan mediates ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Talks between the United States and Iran ended after 15-hours and are set to resume in Pakistan's Islamabad later on Sunday (April 12), Iranian media reported. The White House said that the talks went on for 15 hours and more. Several reports indicated that the Iranian media contingent has left the venue in Islamabad. A Pakistani official told AFP talks were "progressing in the right direction". According to reports, the Iranian and US officials were meeting directly, alongside Pakistan, and not speaking through mediators. Also Read: Netanyahu says Iran's nuclear and missile programmes ‘crushed’ as talks underway in Islamabad Iran's statement on the talks The statement quoted by Tasnim news agency and Mehr said, “End of 15-hour marathon talks on first day of Iran-US talks in Islamabad.” Both the statements added that the next round of negotiations will be held after sunrise. Iran's state TV earlier said that the talks will continue on Sunday as both the countries did not reach any understanding on their differences in the last round of talks. They assured that negotiations are in place despite differences. In the last round of talks, the Iran's government said that technical teams from both the countries are exchanging “expert texts." Iran also accused the United States of making "excessive demands" on the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil transits. Earlier, Iranian government said that talks between Iran and the US in Islamabad took place in presence of economic, military, legal, and nuclear committees. It confirmed that negotiations at Islamabad's Serena Hotel included the restriction of strikes in Lebanon, and the US agreement to release Iranian assets. Also Read: Trump issues two-word response to report of China shipping weapons to Iran: What he said Iran-US talks in Pakistan Amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Strait of Hormuz, despite the two-weeks ceasefire, US Vice President JD Vance became the highest-ranking American to meet directly with Iranian officials since the 1979 Islamic revolution. He was accompanied by Trump's real-estate friend Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner. In the Pakistani capital Islamabad, Iranian delegation was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. While Ghalibaf, speaking shortly after landing in Pakistan, said that Iran remained highly suspicious of the United States, Vance said before leaving the United States that if Iran was "willing to negotiate in good faith, we're certainly willing to extend the open hand". He addeed that the United States would not be receptive “if they're going to try to play us.” Lebanon has become a major bone of contention in the ceasefire announced earlier this week, as Israel insisted that the ceasefire does not affect its invasion of Lebanon, and Iran blocked the Hormuz again in response of massive Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon.

US–Iran peace talks in Islamabad end without breakthrough after 14 hours. Iran and United States continue negotiations with technical teams exchanging proposals, as Pakistan mediates ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Iran-US negotiation pause in Islamabad after 15-hour marathon talks, to continue on Sunday amid disagreements

Iran’s Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate as US Central Command begins mine-clearing operations. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warns of severe action against military vessels, while Donald Trump claims US dominance amid ongoing talks.

'Any attempt by...': Iran issues BIG warning after 2 US warships 'transit Strait of Hormuz' amid ongoing talks

Intense Israeli airstrikes have continued across Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties and widespread destruction, casting doubt on the stability of a recently announced, though disputed, ceasefire deal between the United States and Iran. Despite the initiation of diplomatic efforts to discuss a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated there is "no ceasefire in Lebanon" and that operations against Hezbollah will continue with "full force". 


Doubts Persist Over Lebanon's Situation, Israel Launches Deadly Blitz Ahead of Ceasefire Talks

Iran has presented a 10-point proposal to the United States via Pakistani mediators to end the ongoing conflict, focusing on a permanent cessation of hostilities rather than a temporary ceasefire. Key demands include lifting all primary and secondary sanctions, U.S. military withdrawal from the region, and guarantees against further attacks. 


Iran-US Truce Talks: Pakistan Pushes For Direct Iran-US Engagement

Diplomatic tensions have taken a dramatic turn as questions emerge over possible US engagement with Reza Amiri Moghadam, who reportedly appears on the FBI’s most wanted list. He is linked to the abduction of a retired FBI agent, a case that has remained unresolved for years. Adding to the intrigue, the envoy briefly posted about incoming negotiations before deleting it. The controversy casts a shadow over already sensitive Iran-US talks.


Who is Reza Amiri Moghadam; Iran's Ambassador To Pakistan On FBI's Most Wanted List

The second round of talks between US and Iran have concluded in Geneva. Ahead of the talks, the US president made remarks about the consequences the country would face if the Oman-mediated negotiations failed. On Tuesday (Feb 17), hailing Oman for hosting the latest round of talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva that "a new window of opportunity has opened, under which we had the second round of the negotiations with the United States earlier today here in Geneva". Iran's top diplomat voiced hope, saying "a new window of opportunity" seen in fresh nuclear talks with Washington would lead to a lasting solution to the two countries' standoff.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aragchi added, "We are hopeful that negotiation will lead to a sustainable and negotiated solution which can serve the interests of relevant parties and the broader region," he said, stressing, though, “Iran remains fully prepared to defend itself against any threat or act of aggression.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-touts-strongest-military-khamenei-warns-us-could-be-struck-so-hard-cannot-get-up-again-1771328673113">Trump touts ‘strongest military’; Khamenei warns US could be 'struck so hard cannot get up again'</a>&nbsp;<h2>Key takeaways from Aragchi’s statement:</h2>&nbsp;"Ultimately, we were able to reach broad agreement on a set of guiding principles, based on which we will move forward and begin working on the text of a potential agreement," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state TV after Tuesday's talks, which he described as "more constructive" than the previous round earlier this month.&nbsp;He added that once both sides had come up with draft texts for an agreement, "the drafts would be exchanged and a date for a third round (of talks) would be set". Araghchi acknowledged, however, that it "will take time to narrow" the gap between both countries' positions.&nbsp;Before the talk could commence, America had begun moving its aircraft carriers to the Middle East;&nbsp;USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln are the vessels in transit. The 79-year-old had also said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East. You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential."&nbsp;(With agency inputs)

Amid live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz and military threats from President Trump, Iran's Foreign Minister announces a "new window of opportunity" and the start of the draft text exchange.

The second round of talks between US and Iran have concluded in Geneva. Ahead of the talks, the US president made remarks about the consequences the country would face if the Oman-mediated negotiations failed. On Tuesday (Feb 17), hailing Oman for hosting the latest round of talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva that "a new window of opportunity has opened, under which we had the second round of the negotiations with the United States earlier today here in Geneva". Iran's top diplomat voiced hope, saying "a new window of opportunity" seen in fresh nuclear talks with Washington would lead to a lasting solution to the two countries' standoff. Aragchi added, "We are hopeful that negotiation will lead to a sustainable and negotiated solution which can serve the interests of relevant parties and the broader region," he said, stressing, though, “Iran remains fully prepared to defend itself against any threat or act of aggression.” Also read: Trump touts ‘strongest military’; Khamenei warns US could be 'struck so hard cannot get up again' Key takeaways from Aragchi’s statement: "Ultimately, we were able to reach broad agreement on a set of guiding principles, based on which we will move forward and begin working on the text of a potential agreement," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state TV after Tuesday's talks, which he described as "more constructive" than the previous round earlier this month. He added that once both sides had come up with draft texts for an agreement, "the drafts would be exchanged and a date for a third round (of talks) would be set". Araghchi acknowledged, however, that it "will take time to narrow" the gap between both countries' positions. Before the talk could commence, America had begun moving its aircraft carriers to the Middle East; USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln are the vessels in transit. The 79-year-old had also said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East. You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential." (With agency inputs)

Amid live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz and military threats from President Trump, Iran's Foreign Minister announces a "new window of opportunity" and the start of the draft text exchange.

'New window of opportunity': Iran and US agree on 'guiding principles' for a nuclear deal

Lindsey Graham signalled a possible US decision on Iran within weeks as nuclear talks continue in Geneva. While Washington weighs diplomacy and military options, Tehran has responded with warnings and drills, raising fears of escalation and potential regime change tensions.

Iran regime change on cards? Trump ally gives BIG HINT in Israel amid nuclear talks: 'Khamenei's murderous regime...'

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 16) sounded an ominous warning against Iran, warning the nation of "consequences of not making a deal" ahead of looming talks between America and Tehran in Geneva. The POTUS confirmed that he would take part in the vital talks "indirectly".<h2>Is Iran a "bad negotiator"?</h2>Calling the impending talks "very important", the US President noted that Iran was a "tough negotiator" but also insisted that the leaders of the nation were "bad negotiators as we could have had a deal instead of sending out B-2s (B-2 Bombers) to knock out their nuclear potential." He added that he hoped Iran would be "more reasonable".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-contrived-media-war-confirms-us-talks-as-trump-warns-we-ll-see-what-happens-with-uss-abraham-lincoln-1769910250463">Iran slams ‘contrived media war’, confirms US talks as Trump warns ‘we’ll see what happens’ with USS Abraham Lincoln</a>"They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East." He predicted some contention, saying, "You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential." Trump once again insisted that without the United States' Operation Midnight Hammer - under which US forces targeted three key nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan - Tehran "would have had a nuclear weapon within one month." He added, "If that happened, it would have been a whole different deal."<h2>When will the US and Iran hold the next round of talks?</h2>The latest round of talks between the two nations is scheduled for Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva. They will be mediated by Oman and come after repeated threats from Trump of military action against Tehran over Iran's deadly crackdown on anti-government protests, and then more recently over the country's nuclear programme. Following Trump's threats of intervention, the United States has also deployed warships led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier off Iran’s shores.The previous nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States took place in Muscat, Oman, and Rome, Italy, in April 2025.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-committee-accuses-iran-of-life-threatening-mistreatment-of-jailed-peace-prize-winner-narges-mohammadi-1770883870516">Nobel Committee accuses Iran of 'life-threatening mistreatment' of jailed Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi</a> While the US and some European nations fear that Iran's nuclear programme is aimed at making a bomb, Tehran denies the claims. Earlier this month, talking to Reuters, a regional diplomat briefed by Iran insisted that the Islamic Republic would not budge on its right to enrich uranium inside Iran. However, the nation was willing to discuss the "level and purity" of enrichment or a regional consortium, said the diplomat, adding that Tehran believed the US negotiators "seemed to understand Iran’s stance on the enrichment … and they showed flexibility about Tehran’s demands."

Trump has issued a fresh warning to Iran ahead of crucial Geneva talks, claiming US strikes already crippled Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and hinting at “consequences” if negotiations fail. Will diplomacy work this time, or is escalation coming? Scroll down to read more.


US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 16) sounded an ominous warning against Iran, warning the nation of "consequences of not making a deal" ahead of looming talks between America and Tehran in Geneva. The POTUS confirmed that he would take part in the vital talks "indirectly". Is Iran a "bad negotiator"? Calling the impending talks "very important", the US President noted that Iran was a "tough negotiator" but also insisted that the leaders of the nation were "bad negotiators as we could have had a deal instead of sending out B-2s (B-2 Bombers) to knock out their nuclear potential." He added that he hoped Iran would be "more reasonable". Also read | Iran slams ‘contrived media war’, confirms US talks as Trump warns ‘we’ll see what happens’ with USS Abraham Lincoln "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East." He predicted some contention, saying, "You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential." Trump once again insisted that without the United States' Operation Midnight Hammer - under which US forces targeted three key nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan - Tehran "would have had a nuclear weapon within one month." He added, "If that happened, it would have been a whole different deal." When will the US and Iran hold the next round of talks? The latest round of talks between the two nations is scheduled for Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva. They will be mediated by Oman and come after repeated threats from Trump of military action against Tehran over Iran's deadly crackdown on anti-government protests, and then more recently over the country's nuclear programme. Following Trump's threats of intervention, the United States has also deployed warships led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier off Iran’s shores. The previous nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States took place in Muscat, Oman, and Rome, Italy, in April 2025. Also read | Nobel Committee accuses Iran of 'life-threatening mistreatment' of jailed Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi While the US and some European nations fear that Iran's nuclear programme is aimed at making a bomb, Tehran denies the claims. Earlier this month, talking to Reuters, a regional diplomat briefed by Iran insisted that the Islamic Republic would not budge on its right to enrich uranium inside Iran. However, the nation was willing to discuss the "level and purity" of enrichment or a regional consortium, said the diplomat, adding that Tehran believed the US negotiators "seemed to understand Iran’s stance on the enrichment … and they showed flexibility about Tehran’s demands."

Trump has issued a fresh warning to Iran ahead of crucial Geneva talks, claiming US strikes already crippled Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and hinting at “consequences” if negotiations fail. Will diplomacy work this time, or is escalation coming? Scroll down to read more.

Trump, ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva, warns Tehran of 'consequences' if nuclear deal fails

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