US, Iran trade new attacks amid talks: Here’s what we know

Despite a ceasefire in effect since April 8, the United States and Iran have engaged in a new exchange of attacks. The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) stated it struck Iranian radar and drone sites over the weekend in response to Iran shooting down a US drone. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have targeted a US airbase used for an attack on a telecommunications tower. Additionally, Iran has reportedly struck bases of Iranian Kurdish opposition groups in northern Iraq. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman asserted the country's right to retaliatory strikes on regional bases used for attacks against it. These exchanges occur as diplomatic efforts for a peace agreement continue.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard stated on Monday that it targeted a US base in response to US strikes on Iranian military sites over the weekend. The US military's Central Command (Centcom) reported striking Iranian air defenses, a control station, and drones after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. Missile and drone attacks were also reported in Kuwait, home to a US base. These exchanges occur amid ongoing negotiations to end a three-month war, which has significantly impacted global energy prices due to Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran denies such intentions and seeks the lifting of sanctions.

The United States bombed Iranian radar and drone control sites in Iran after Tehran shot down a U.S. MQ-1 Predator drone over international waters. Iran acknowledged launching a retaliatory strike, and Kuwait reported intercepting incoming drone and missile fire. These actions reflect the ongoing fragility of a ceasefire in the Iran war, despite ongoing negotiations. The U.S. military stated its strikes were a response to aggressive Iranian actions and that no American troops were harmed. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed U.S. forces targeted a telecommunications tower, and stated they responded with an attack, likely referring to the incident in Kuwait. The conflict continues to disrupt global energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted "self-defense strikes" against Iran over the weekend. These strikes targeted Iranian radar and command and control sites for drones in Goruk and Qeshm Island. CENTCOM stated the actions were in response to aggressive Iranian actions, including the shootdown of a U.S. MQ-1 drone over international waters. U.S. fighter aircraft eliminated Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two attack drones that threatened regional shipping. No American service members were harmed, and CENTCOM indicated it will continue to protect U.S. assets and interests against unwarranted Iranian aggression.

The US and Iran exchanged air strikes over the weekend near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command stated it conducted "self-defense strikes" on Iranian radar and drone command and control sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island. These actions were in response to what the US described as "aggressive Iranian actions," including the shootdown of a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. The US reported its strikes targeted Iranian military air defenses, a ground control station, and two drones that posed a threat to regional shipping, with no American casualties. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have targeted an air base used by US forces, stating its response would differ if US aggression continued.

The US stated it conducted strikes on Iranian military sites over the weekend. In response, Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced on Monday they targeted a US base. These actions represent the latest in a series of exchanges occurring amidst ongoing negotiations to end a three-month war. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) explained the strikes on Iran's Gulf coast were a reaction to "aggressive Iranian actions," specifically mentioning the shootdown of a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. CENTCOM further stated that US fighter aircraft responded by neutralizing Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two attack drones that threatened regional shipping. CENTCOM affirmed its commitment to protecting US assets and interests during the current ceasefire.

President Donald Trump has reportedly requested edits to a proposed US-Iran deal aimed at ending recent fighting. According to US media, these changes specifically concern the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of highly enriched uranium. The White House has not commented on these reports. Iran's chief negotiator stated that Tehran would only agree to a deal if its rights are fully secured. The proposed framework, which has been under negotiation, includes a 60-day cessation of violence, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and a plan to resume nuclear program negotiations. If diplomacy advances, the deal could also involve sanctions relief for Iran, potentially unfreezing billions in assets.

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated on Sunday that the United States cannot be trusted and that Iran will not accept any deal that does not fully protect its rights. This declaration follows reports that US President Donald Trump has submitted a more stringent peace proposal to Iran. These developments highlight the significant disagreements that remain between the two parties. Any modifications to the current draft could postpone an agreement aimed at formally ending the Middle East war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing negotiations have been characterized by intense rhetoric and sporadic violence.

At the recent Shangri-La Dialogue, discussions centered on defense spending and regional commitment to peace. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase their defense contributions, proposing a 3.5% of GDP target. Analysts noted that most ASEAN countries, with the exception of Singapore, would find this spending level difficult to commit to. Hegseth warned that allies unwilling to increase their defense efforts would experience a "clear shift" in U.S. engagement. The dialogue highlighted a divergence in defense capabilities and willingness to contribute to collective security among Asian nations.

President Donald Trump has reportedly toughened the terms of a proposed agreement aimed at ending the nearly three-month war with Iran. US officials indicate that Iran may take several days to respond to these revised terms, which were sent back for consideration. While the exact nature of the changes is unclear, reports suggest Trump wants to reinforce key points, potentially including Iran's nuclear material and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The US is willing to wait for Iran's response, with hopes for a decision within the week. The war began after the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, American allies emphasized the importance of global unity in addressing escalating, transnational threats. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that division weakens deterrence, while unity strengthens it, warning that gaps among allies would be exploited by adversaries. This call for cooperation comes amidst U.S. criticism of allies, including NATO, for insufficient defense spending. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles and Netherlands Defense Minister Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius echoed the sentiment that regional tensions have global implications and require collective responses to maintain stability and a rules-based international order.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is delivering a keynote speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a forum for discussing regional security challenges. His address is anticipated to signal US policy direction in the Indo-Pacific following President Trump's recent summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Hegseth is expected to cover US commitments in the Asia-Pacific, including issues related to the South China Sea and Taiwan, as well as AI rivalry and the US conflict with Iran. The event, attended by defense ministers, military chiefs, and diplomats from various nations, is the 23rd edition and will provide insights into American alliances and regional security. Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun is notably absent for the second consecutive year.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined America's geopolitical goals, focusing on China's military buildup and its implications for regional stability. Hegseth expressed alarm over China's growing military presence and urged US allies to increase their defense spending to counter this power. Regarding Taiwan, he stated there was "no change in our status," but acknowledged that President Trump would make the final decision on a potential $14 billion arms sale. Hegseth also emphasized the need for allies to contribute more to defense, stating, "The era of the United States subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over." He also addressed Iran, warning of renewed US attacks if a satisfactory deal to end the ongoing war is not reached.

At an Asian security summit in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Hegseth reassured allies that the US remains committed to the region, emphasizing a "strong, quiet and clear" approach backed by hard power. He stated the US is not "turning back" on its Asian partners but expects them to increase their defense spending, suggesting a target of 3.5% of GDP. Hegseth downplayed concerns about the US's ability to fulfill arms deals, asserting a strong munitions stockpile and production capacity, despite a recent suspension of a package to Taiwan. He argued for increased combat power over "empty globalist rhetoric," calling for more ships and submarines rather than additional conferences. This comes as Vietnam's President called for more dialogue to resolve regional tensions.

The U.S. military disabled the Gambia-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star in the Gulf of Oman for attempting to breach an American blockade of Iranian ports. A U.S. official stated the ship ignored warnings before being disabled by U.S. aircraft. This marks the sixth vessel stopped by the U.S. since implementing the blockade on April 17 in response to Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, and the world awaits a decision on extending it while new talks on Iran's nuclear program are considered. The blockade aims to limit Iran's shipments and weaken its economy, impacting global trade.

On day 92 of the Iran conflict, prospects for a US-Iran agreement remain uncertain as President Trump prepares to make a "final determination" on a deal. Iranian officials maintain that negotiations are ongoing but no final agreement has been reached, emphasizing that Tehran will judge any potential easing of restrictions by actions, not words, and will not act unless Washington does first. Meanwhile, fighting continues in the region, with Israeli forces reportedly advancing beyond Lebanon's Litani River. US Central Command stated its forces are vigilant across the region, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase defense spending while reiterating the US commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. The US Department of Defense also described military-to-military talks between Israeli and Lebanese delegations in Washington as "productive."

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that the United States is "more than capable" of resuming hostilities with Iran, citing sufficient weapon stockpiles. This declaration came as negotiations for a peace deal to end the conflict, which has impacted the global economy, failed to yield an agreement. Hegseth also expressed "rightful alarm" regarding China's military buildup but emphasized the US does not seek "needless confrontation" in Asia, aiming instead for a stable equilibrium. The US seeks respectful engagement with Beijing, though China's defense minister was absent from the summit.

President Trump claimed he was close to approving a peace deal with Iran that would include major concessions, such as opening the Strait of Hormuz and eliminating Iran's nuclear program. However, top Iranian officials denied that a final agreement had been reached, stating that message exchanges were ongoing but no final understanding was in place. Trump outlined his demands on social media, including Iran never possessing nuclear weapons, allowing toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and the US destroying enriched uranium. Iranian news agencies reported that Trump's statements contained a mix of truth and lies, and that the nuclear issue and opening of the Strait of Hormuz without fees were not part of any agreement. Iranian officials indicated defiance and readiness for further conflict if talks failed.

President Donald Trump is reportedly in the White House Situation Room to make a "final determination" regarding a deal with Iran. The article states that Trump himself made this announcement. The purpose of his presence in the Situation Room is to finalize a decision on this specific agreement. No further details about the nature of the deal or the potential outcomes are provided in the given content.

President Donald Trump is reportedly making a "final determination" on a potential deal with Iran to extend a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, deep mistrust persists between Washington and Tehran, with Iran's foreign ministry stating no final agreement has been reached. Iran's top negotiator emphasized that Tehran will judge any deal by actions, not words. Trump outlined several US conditions for an agreement, including Iran never possessing nuclear weapons, the Strait of Hormuz remaining open and toll-free, and the removal of mines. He also indicated that ships currently in the Strait due to a US naval blockade could begin to depart, with no money exchanged until further notice. Uncertainty surrounds the details of a potential memorandum of understanding.

US President Donald Trump met with his advisers in the White House Situation Room to make a "final determination" on an agreement with Iran. This meeting follows confirmation from US officials that a framework for a deal, a memorandum of understanding, has been agreed upon by both nations, pending approval from their respective leaderships. The reported deal would extend a ceasefire for 60 days and initiate talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. Trump stated that Iran must agree to never possess nuclear weapons, reopen the Strait of Hormuz for unrestricted shipping, and destroy any mines in the waterway. He also indicated a willingness to lift the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and for Iran to allow the removal and destruction of its enriched uranium.

Iran's decision to threaten closure of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a US naval blockade, has prompted a significant internal debate about the country's deterrent strategy. This shift potentially moves Iran's focus from nuclear ambition, which incurred substantial economic and political costs, to controlling the vital oil chokepoint. The nuclear program, a source of division and repression, has been significantly impacted by recent US attacks on its facilities. Now, factions within Iran are considering whether control of the Strait of Hormuz can replace nuclear latency as the primary deterrent, with some arguing it offers greater leverage and is less vulnerable than nuclear facilities. This potential doctrinal shift is reflected in public statements and policy discussions, suggesting a reevaluation of Iran's strategic priorities.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated it targeted a US base in response to US aerial attacks near Bandar Abbas Airport. A US official confirmed the US shot down Iranian drones and struck a ground control station in Bandar Abbas, describing these actions as defensive and aimed at maintaining a ceasefire. Despite these exchanges, neither country has declared the ceasefire collapsed, marking the third direct military engagement since its announcement. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump rejected reports of a deal with Iran, emphasizing that no single country would control the Strait of Hormuz and threatening Oman if it did not "behave." Trump also stated he was not satisfied with a potential deal and was not discussing sanctions relief.

The US military conducted strikes on a military site in Bandar Abbas, Iran, and shot down four Iranian attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (Centcom) stated the strikes targeted an Iranian ground control station preparing to launch a fifth drone. These actions occurred amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing negotiations to end a conflict impacting the Strait of Hormuz and global energy prices. Centcom described the strikes as defensive and intended to maintain the ceasefire. President Trump commented that Iran is "negotiating on fumes" and that his war strategy would not be affected by upcoming elections.

Kuwait announced it was targeted by a missile and drone attack on Thursday, adding to the instability of the Iran war's ceasefire. Iran later stated it launched an attack in the region, though the specific target was not disclosed. This incident follows recent U.S. strikes in Iran, including defensive actions against missile launch sites and drones near the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran to end the war are ongoing, with key issues including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's uranium stockpile, and the lifting of sanctions. Kuwait, a U.S. ally, has been targeted by Iran and Iranian-backed militias in the past. Iran's Revolutionary Guard acknowledged an attack near Bandar Abbas International Airport and claimed a retaliatory strike on an air base, but it is unclear if this is related to the Kuwaiti announcement.

The US Treasury has warned Oman that it will impose sanctions if the country facilitates Iran's establishment of a tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Washington will "aggressively target" any actors involved in such efforts and that "willing partners will be penalized." This warning follows recent threats from President Trump against Oman, a country known for its neutrality and mediation. The US stance comes after Iran suggested joint management of the Strait with Oman and subsequently closed the waterway, claiming sovereignty. The article notes that it is unusual for the US to threaten sanctions against a close ally and that the driving force behind Washington's posture is unclear.

President Donald Trump has shared a draft peace agreement for the war with Iran with allies, including Israel, as both sides attempt to prevent ceasefire breaches from derailing negotiations. The draft proposes opening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within 30 days, lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports, and granting Iran access to $12 billion in frozen assets. Negotiations would then commence on Iran's nuclear program, including uranium enrichment and IAEA supervision, with Iran renouncing nuclear weapons. This move comes amid ongoing skirmishes, including Iran targeting a US airbase in Kuwait and Washington striking an Iranian drone operation. Pakistan's foreign minister is traveling to Washington to meet his US counterpart to expedite talks. The agreement's scope, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear commitments and a permanent ceasefire including Lebanon, is reportedly unpalatable for Israel.

The US military conducted new strikes inside Iran overnight, targeting an Iranian ground control station in Bandar Abbas. This action occurred as four Iranian one-way attack drones, posing a threat near the Strait of Hormuz, were shot down. According to a US official, the struck site was preparing to launch a fifth drone. These strikes took place amidst ongoing negotiations aimed at ending a three-month war that began on February 28th with US and Israeli attacks. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and significantly increased global energy prices.

The US has conducted strikes on boats and missile sites in Iran's Hormozgan province, which Iran's foreign ministry has labeled a "gross violation" of a fragile ceasefire. This action occurred shortly after both nations indicated progress in peace talks aimed at halting the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard stated they are prepared to respond, criticizing ongoing diplomacy. The US Central Command stated the strikes were to protect troops from Iranian threats. These events follow intense negotiations concerning a memorandum of understanding, with a key sticking point being the unfreezing of Iranian funds. The war, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has significantly impacted oil prices and global supply chains.

The US conducted strikes on Iranian missile sites and mine-laying vessels, which US Central Command described as defensive actions to test a seven-week ceasefire. These strikes occurred as Iranian negotiators traveled to Qatar for talks, reportedly focusing on the release of frozen assets and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. While the US stressed the ceasefire was not over, Iran reported four Guard troops killed in the strikes. The negotiations aim for Iran to restore commercial shipping through the strait, with nuclear program discussions to follow. President Trump indicated a potential concession on Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, but warned of further attacks if a deal isn't reached.

Iran has condemned US air strikes in southern Iran as a "gross violation" of a ceasefire, occurring while Iranian and Qatari negotiators were in Doha for peace talks. The US Central Command stated these were "self-defence strikes" targeting Iranian missile sites and boats attempting to place mines in the Hormozgan region. Iran holds the US responsible for the consequences of these actions and vowed retaliation. Despite the strikes, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a deal from the talks remains possible, though it may take several days, with a key sticking point reportedly being Iran's request for the release of frozen funds.

Despite US bombings of Iranian targets, Iran remains engaged in peace talks mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. Iran's foreign ministry condemned the attacks, which targeted missile launchers and mine-laying efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, as a violation of the ceasefire but announced no specific reprisals. The US action killed four Iranian soldiers. Negotiations are focused on unlocking over $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets and securing sanctions relief for Iran's oil exports. A separate agreement aims to lift the blockade of Iranian oil ports and restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Hardliners in both countries are pressuring negotiators, but Iran's chief negotiator is reportedly focused on the frozen assets as the last major dispute.

The US military conducted strikes on Iranian missile launch sites and boats in southern Iran, citing self-defense. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a potential agreement might be reached soon, though Iran's top negotiator stated that while much has been concluded, a signing is not imminent. Discussions reportedly involve a 60-day ceasefire extension, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and further nuclear program negotiations. US intelligence believes Iran's Supreme Leader is in hiding, complicating communication with envoys and slowing talks. Contentious issues like sanctions relief and nuclear program details are expected to be negotiated later. Iran's foreign minister was in Doha for talks with Qatar's prime minister regarding a potential deal with the US.

US forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran on Monday, targeting missile launch sites and boats attempting to lay mines. US Central Command stated these actions were taken to protect American troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. The attacks occurred as top Iranian negotiators arrived in Doha for talks aimed at ending a war. No further details about the strikes were provided by US Central Command.

US media reports suggest a potential deal with Iran could be finalized on Monday, involving a 60-day ceasefire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This agreement, however, is not a final settlement and defers complex issues like sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear ambitions to later negotiations. Communication difficulties with Iran's supreme leader, reportedly injured in an earlier strike, have slowed talks. The reported deal has divided Republicans, with some criticizing it as too lenient. President Trump, however, stated he would not listen to critics and would make a "good and proper" deal, reiterating that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. The conflict began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to retaliatory attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which sent oil prices soaring.

US President Donald Trump is reportedly "mandatorily requesting" regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Pakistan, to establish formal relations with Israel as part of a potential deal with Iran. This proposal has emerged amid criticism from pro-Israel advocates regarding a possible agreement with Iran. Some hawkish figures, who previously opposed any deal that didn't significantly weaken Iran, have softened their stance following Trump's push for expanded normalization with Israel, similar to the Abraham Accords. Trump stated that these countries should "simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords." While the article notes that none of the mentioned countries have responded, it also highlights that many have historically refused normalization due to the Palestinian cause. This diplomatic maneuver is seen by some as an attempt to frame the ongoing war against Iran as a success.

Following a joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran in February, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing alarm and dismay over reported terms of a potential deal being negotiated by US President Donald Trump. Three months later, the Iranian regime remains in power, and the proposed agreement, which aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, is seen by many Israeli commentators as less restrictive than previous deals and potentially beneficial to Iran. Israel was reportedly excluded from negotiations and has not been updated on their progress. Critics argue that if Iran obtains a nuclear bomb, it will be a consequence of Netanyahu's strategy, and concerns about Iran's regional influence and missile arsenal are not being addressed. Despite initial support for the war, public backing for Netanyahu's government has declined.

Following a recent Iran war, Middle Eastern rivals have united to push for a peace deal, influencing the Trump administration to accept a tentative agreement despite Israeli opposition. This shift reflects a regional adaptation to diminished US power, evidenced by Washington's inability to decisively impact Iran or fully protect its allies. The survival of the Iranian regime has compelled its neighbors to seek accommodation. Pakistani and Qatari officials played a key role in facilitating the outline agreement between Tehran and Washington. Several Muslim-majority nations urged President Trump to accept the deal, which aims to end the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and restart nuclear program negotiations. This regional consensus-building appears to be mending rivalries, with countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia now supporting the peace initiative.

US President Donald Trump announced that a peace deal with Iran, aimed at ending months of war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, is largely negotiated. The proposed memorandum of understanding involves multiple regional countries and would formally end the US-Israel war on Iran. While Trump expressed optimism, Iranian officials confirmed ongoing negotiations but highlighted significant disagreements, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear program, and regional conflicts. Iran's priority is ending the war and halting US attacks. The draft agreement reportedly includes Iran's commitment to not pursue nuclear weapons and potentially surrendering enriched uranium, with details to be negotiated later.

Regional officials report that the United States is nearing a deal with Iran that would end the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and see Iran relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that "significant progress" has been made in negotiations, though Iran has not publicly committed to giving up its uranium. The potential deal aims to address the global energy crisis caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following a U.S. and Israeli bombardment in February. Details regarding the timeline and specifics of Iran's uranium handover are still being discussed, with possibilities including dilution or transfer to a third country. The agreement also reportedly includes an end to the war between Israel and Hezbollah and a commitment to non-interference in regional affairs.

A proposed ceasefire deal between the US and Iran, largely negotiated according to Donald Trump, could involve a 60-day truce. Key elements include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Iran to freely sell oil, and resuming talks on limiting Iran's nuclear program. Iran would clear mines and not impose tolls in the strait, while the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports. The deal might also unfreeze some Iranian assets and halt hostilities on all fronts. However, Iran has reportedly not agreed to hand over its highly enriched uranium stockpile, and its ballistic missile program and regional support are not mentioned as part of the preliminary agreement.

Republican hawks, including Senators Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham, are criticizing President Trump's reported plan for a peace deal with Iran, calling it a "disastrous mistake." The proposed agreement reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and lifting the US naval blockade on Iranian ports in exchange for Iran clearing mines and allowing ships passage. However, critics are concerned that the deal does not address Iran's nuclear ambitions, a stated "red line" for the administration. Trump has stated that US representatives are not being rushed and that talks are progressing constructively. Former officials like Mike Pompeo also voiced strong disapproval of the rumored concessions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that "significant progress" has been made in talks aimed at ending the US-Israel war on Iran. This comes after President Trump indicated a memorandum of understanding to cease hostilities was "largely negotiated." According to Iran's Tasnim News Agency, a potential deal could see shipping levels through the Strait of Hormuz return to pre-war levels within 30 days. The agreement would also address concerns about Iran's nuclear program and include the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, along with the release of frozen Iranian funds. Rubio suggested that positive news could be announced soon.

US President Donald Trump announced that a Memorandum of Understanding for ceasefire talks to end the US-Israel war with Iran has been largely negotiated. The agreement, which is still subject to finalization by negotiators and other countries, reportedly includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump made this statement following calls with leaders from several Middle Eastern nations and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This development comes after a week of fluctuating rhetoric from Trump, who had previously threatened escalation but also indicated a deal was close. The announcement coincided with the conclusion of a visit by Pakistan's army chief to Iran, where "encouraging progress" was reported towards a final understanding.

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that a peace deal with Iran has been "largely negotiated," potentially ending a war initiated by the US and Israel in February. The agreement, described as a Memorandum of Understanding, is subject to finalization and will include the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows calls Trump made with Pakistani mediators, Gulf allies, and Israel. A Pakistani source indicated that Iran and Pakistan had submitted a revised proposal to the US aimed at ending the war and reopening the strait. Regional officials suggest the potential deal involves a formal declaration of war's end, negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, and the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports. Trump indicated that final aspects and details are still being discussed and will be announced shortly.

Officials report that Iran and the United States are nearing a deal to end the ongoing war in the Middle East, with Pakistan leading mediation efforts. Significant progress has been made in talks, though last-minute disputes remain a possibility. The potential agreement includes an official declaration of the war's end, followed by two months of negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. Key provisions also involve the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the cessation of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged some progress, while Iran described the draft as a "framework agreement" for further discussions. Both nations have emphasized their core positions and warned against resuming hostilities.

Donald Trump posted an image on Truth Social showing the US flag superimposed over a map of Iran, with the caption "United States of the Middle East?". This occurred on Saturday, May 23, 2026, amidst ongoing "delicate diplomacy" and indications of progress in talks between the US and Iran regarding a ceasefire. Experts noted the post's potential to disrupt negotiations, contrasting with previous statements from the Trump administration about not seeking occupation or outright regime change in Iran. Simultaneously, US and Iranian officials suggested a new deal was nearing finalization, with both sides indicating converging opinions on a memorandum of understanding. The article also mentions Trump's previous threats and subsequent pauses in fighting, as well as his broader foreign policy efforts to increase US influence abroad.

Iran hosted a Pakistani delegation, including Army Chief Syed Asim Munir, in Tehran on Saturday amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent renewed US strikes. Iran's parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that Iran would not compromise on its "legitimate rights" and warned of a more severe response if the US resumes hostilities. The US was reportedly considering fresh strikes, while Iran indicated it was in the "final stage" of drafting a deal framework. Pakistan has been mediating talks, focusing on a 14-point peace proposal and messages between the parties. Mediators believe they are close to extending a 60-day ceasefire and establishing a framework for talks on Iran's nuclear program.

Iran is weighing a US peace proposal despite significant disagreements, with reports suggesting the US administration is preparing for strikes if negotiations fail. Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, visited Tehran on Friday and met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. While Iran's UN mission accused Washington of "excessive demands" hindering talks, Araghchi cautioned that the visit did not signify a turning point due to ongoing "deep and significant" disagreements. US President Trump described recent negotiations as being on the "borderline" between renewed attacks and a deal. Araghchi has also engaged in calls with counterparts from Turkey, Iraq, Qatar, and Oman, as well as the UN Secretary-General, regarding the peace talks.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported "slight progress" in talks with Iran, amid ongoing uncertainty about whether a deal will be reached or war will resume. This comes after President Trump stated he was holding off on military strikes due to "serious negotiations." Rubio's comments preceded a NATO foreign ministers meeting where the alliance might discuss policing the Strait of Hormuz post-war. Despite claims of progress, a deal has not materialized, and Trump has a history of shifting deadlines and actions. Tensions have surfaced between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over the negotiations. Meanwhile, Pakistan is actively involved in de-escalation efforts, with its interior minister visiting Tehran twice. Major sticking points persist, including Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and U.S. blockades. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have also reportedly conducted separate attacks on Iran and Iranian-backed militias in Iraq.

Pakistani mediators are working to broker a permanent ceasefire between the US and Iran, though significant disagreements persist. Key sticking points include future control of the Strait of Hormuz and a US demand for Iran to export its highly enriched uranium stockpile. Iran prioritizes ending hostilities and lifting sanctions, proposing its own authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz, a plan opposed by five Gulf states. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran fear surprise attacks, and the US president maintains military action remains an option. Iran denies media speculation about nuclear issues, stating negotiations focus on ending the war and lifting sanctions.

Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, is in Tehran for mediation efforts aimed at ending the ongoing war between Israel and the United States, which began on February 28. This marks Munir's second trip to Iran for such purposes, following previous Pakistani mediation that secured a temporary ceasefire and hosted high-level US-Iran talks. During his current visit, Munir is expected to discuss Iran-US negotiations, regional peace, and other significant issues. Iranian officials acknowledge deep gaps between Tehran and Washington, stating that while the focus is on ending the war, an agreement is not necessarily close. The European Union is also considering sanctions against Iran over the Hormuz blockade.

Iran is reviewing the latest US responses to its proposal aimed at ending the nearly three-month war, with Pakistan intensifying mediation efforts. Pakistan's military chief, Asim Munir, is scheduled to visit Tehran for talks, following a visit by Pakistan's Interior Minister. US President Donald Trump has warned that negotiations are on the verge of either a deal or renewed strikes, stating he needs "the right answers" from Iran. Iran's Foreign Minister indicated readiness for either talks or continued fighting, while Iran's proposal reportedly includes demands for control of the Strait of Hormuz, reparations, and sanctions relief. The US has maintained a naval blockade on Iran since mid-April.

Iran is reviewing the latest US response to a proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, with diplomacy remaining open according to Tehran. Pakistan's Army Chief is traveling to Iran to facilitate mediation efforts between the two nations. President Pezeshkian stated that diplomatic solutions are still possible, while warning against attempts to force Iran's surrender. Concurrently, Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority has established a "supervision area" in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring vessels to obtain permission for passage. This development coincides with growing international outrage over a video posted by Israel's National Security Minister, appearing to taunt activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. Iran's parliament speaker accused the US of seeking a new war.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism on Thursday regarding progress in ending the war with Iran. This comes as Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, is scheduled to visit Iran for talks. Munir is described as a significant figure in Pakistan's foreign relations. Rubio's statement followed a warning from US President Donald Trump that negotiations were precariously close to either a deal or renewed strikes. Rubio indicated that the Pakistani delegation's travel to Tehran was expected to advance the situation further.