Two US demands put further Iran talks in doubt

Two US demands put further Iran talks in doubt

Efforts to resume the talks are continuing with mediation by regional states. In Iran, an internal struggle is underway over the delegation’s authority and its ability to reach agreements. In the US, officials are signaling that they will not move forward without a change in Iranian conduct.

Israel, Lebanon launch historic direct talks in Washington

Israel, Lebanon launch historic direct talks in Washington

The IDF warned of possible increased fire from Lebanese territory during the talks in Washington. Lebanon’s president said he hoped the meeting would mark “the beginning of the end of the suffering of the Lebanese people in general and the residents of southern Lebanon in particular.” Israel, Lebanon and the US said in a joint statement that they had agreed to launch a process of direct negotiations.

Trump declares naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

US naval blockade of Iran takes effect

Analysis puts the potential daily damage at $435 million – nearly $13 billion a month. The blockade could strangle Iran's economy without a ground war, but risks upending the ceasefire and triggering a crisis with Beijing just weeks before Trump meets Xi.

Trump weighs resuming strikes on Iran

Trump weighs resuming strikes on Iran

The Islamabad negotiations fell apart after Tehran refused to dismantle its nuclear program; the White House is now weighing limited military action and a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as leverage.