Takeaways from the G7: Trump’s new attitude toward allies buoyed by their praise for Iran deal

US President Donald Trump indicated that a planned memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, intended to begin ending their war, might not be signed on Friday as scheduled. Speaking at the G7 summit, Trump stated that deals can fall through, but also suggested the signing could happen sooner. The MOU reportedly includes lifting the US naval blockade, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and issuing sanctions waivers for Iran's fossil fuel industry. It also outlines a 60-day negotiation period for more complex issues like Iran's nuclear program and support for regional proxies. Trump also threatened to bomb Iran if they do not "behave." The secrecy surrounding the MOU's text has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans in the US.

US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that a recently announced framework with Iran is not a finalized agreement but rather a memorandum of understanding still under negotiation. Speaking at the G7 summit in France, Trump warned that if he is dissatisfied with the final terms, the situation could escalate back to active military conflict. He indicated that the US might resume military action if Iran does not "behave." The president made these remarks on the sidelines of the summit while speaking with the media alongside Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that G7 leaders at their summit in France pledged increased support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. Key commitments include strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and ensuring its energy supply, alongside escalating international economic pressure on Moscow through new sanctions. Leaders also indicated they would consider granting Ukraine licenses to manufacture Western weapons. This G7 backing is described as exceptionally strong, sending a clear message to Russia. The summit occurred as Ukraine officially began its EU membership negotiations. Separately, Russia claimed a Ukrainian drone attacked a bus with children, an accusation Ukraine denied as a fabrication.

U.S. President Donald Trump is concluding the G7 summit in France, where he is promoting a tentative agreement with Iran aimed at preventing the country from developing nuclear weapons. Despite Trump's claims of a successful deal, its specifics remain undisclosed, leading to skepticism at home and concern among allies like Israel. The agreement's implementation details are unclear, and interpretations of its terms have varied between U.S. and Iranian officials. Trump also faces challenges in managing relationships with other leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, due to the ongoing Iran war and its impact on global energy and trade. The summit also addressed artificial intelligence and economic growth, with Trump scheduled to attend a dinner at the Palace of Versailles before returning to Washington.

G7 leaders have issued a joint statement supporting a deal struck by President Trump with Iran, but calling for follow-on negotiations to address Iran's ballistic missile program, an issue not covered in the current memorandum of understanding. The statement, made at the G7 summit in France, suggests that broader international involvement, including the IAEA, would benefit future talks. While the deal reportedly lifts US sanctions on Iran's oil and establishes a reconstruction fund, Iran is expected to reject proposals for wider talks and a joint taskforce for the Strait of Hormuz. The G7 also reaffirmed support for Ukraine, calling for increased pressure on Russia through sanctions and arms deliveries.

At the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a "re-synchronisation" of positions on Ukraine, stating that all G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, now recognize Ukraine's territorial integrity and acknowledge Russia's lack of willingness to discuss peace. Macron described this as a "very deep change" in the US approach and a "profound shift and remobilisation of the G7." The summit's joint communique included a vow to increase sanctions on Russia, and the US and European G7 countries agreed to produce long-range missiles and air-defence systems under license in Ukraine. Trump also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who updated him on military progress.

At the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with the meeting, citing unity among leaders regarding a tentative agreement with Iran to end the war. This marked a shift from his previous criticism of allies for not supporting military action against Iran. G7 leaders welcomed the Iran deal, acknowledging Trump's leadership, and also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, a stance Trump joined despite his prior skepticism. Discussions also addressed China's economic practices, with leaders agreeing to coordinated actions against economic coercion, though Trump later thanked China and Russia for remaining neutral in the Iran conflict. Trump also indicated he would credit Vice President JD Vance if the Iran deal succeeds but blame him if it fails.

President Trump has backed a G7 statement supporting his proposed peace deal with Iran, despite domestic criticism from some Republicans who want more details. European leaders are seeking to join future talks, which Iran's top diplomat indicated would require Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Meanwhile, people in Iran express exhaustion and anger over the lack of change. The deal also highlights diverging US-Israeli strategic interests, leaving Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a difficult political position. In other news, detainees have been relocated from Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration jail, and fifteen individuals in Minnesota face charges related to protests against ICE enforcement.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an initial agreement in Geneva on Friday, mediated by Pakistan, to end the US-Israel war on Iran and begin 60-day negotiations. While details are undisclosed, US President Donald Trump emphasized Iran's nuclear program as a key concern. Relations between the two countries deteriorated significantly under Trump, beginning with the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018. Following the withdrawal, the US imposed new sanctions on Iran in August and November 2018, targeting various sectors including oil and banking. In April 2019, Trump designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization, leading to retaliatory measures from Tehran.

At the G7 summit, US President Donald Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz would be "completely open" from Friday, claiming a deal was signed that would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism for positive developments in the Middle East and noted a rise in oil prices and the stock market. Analysts, however, pointed out that key promises regarding Iran's nuclear program and regime change in Tehran had not been fulfilled by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who distanced himself from the negotiations. The G7 summit also aimed to bolster support for Ukraine through further sanctions on Russia and energy aid. Separately, eight individuals are presumed dead after a B-52 bomber crashed in California, with a flight-control malfunction suspected as the cause. California Governor Gavin Newsom also claimed Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate him and his wife.

G7 leaders convened in Evian-les-Bains, France, for their summit, with a primary focus on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit at the invitation of host France. Discussions on Ukraine follow a recent agreement announced by U.S. President Donald Trump to end the U.S. war against Iran, which has recently overshadowed the conflict in Ukraine. Trump stated he had positive conversations with both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. French President Emmanuel Macron aims to encourage continued U.S. support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia for a peace agreement. The summit also includes sessions on Middle East stability with leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE.

Israeli drone strikes killed at least four people in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh governorate on Tuesday. The attacks targeted three vehicles in the villages of Mayfadoun and Shoukin. These strikes occurred despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Iran and the United States, which reportedly include an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Iranian officials have stated that Israel's continued occupation of southern Lebanon would violate any ceasefire agreement. Following the announcement of the US-Iran deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated Israel would continue its occupation of southern Lebanon.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that a permanent ceasefire in Lebanon is a crucial component of the peace deal announced with the United States the previous day. Araghchi emphasized that Iran and Hezbollah view themselves as one party to the memorandum, alongside the United States and Israel. He described the immediate and permanent end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, as the most important issue within the agreement. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequently involved Lebanon when Iran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israel.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the end of the war with the United States includes Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Speaking to foreign diplomats, Araghchi emphasized that Israel's continued occupation of Lebanese territories occupied during the war would be considered a violation of the memorandum of understanding. This assertion clashes with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Israel has its own priorities and will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon as long as necessary. The details of the unpublished interim agreement, brokered mainly by Pakistan, remain unclear, but it reportedly includes the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and negotiations on Iran's nuclear program.

At a G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, stating that "all hell will rain down" if the country attempts to acquire a nuclear weapon. Trump described a tentative ceasefire deal with Iran as a "wall to a nuclear weapon," emphasizing his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining such a capability. He also expressed unusually critical remarks regarding Israel's military offensive in Lebanon, suggesting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "has to be more responsible." Trump's comments came as a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran is set to be formally signed, with further negotiations planned. He indicated that he believes Iran's current leadership is rational.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli forces will maintain a "security zone" in occupied Lebanon. The article does not specify when this statement was made or provide further details on the extent or duration of this security zone. The prime minister's declaration indicates Israel's intention to continue its military presence in the region. The article also mentions Syria and Gaza in relation to Israel's security posture, though specific actions or intentions regarding these areas are not elaborated upon in the provided content.

President Donald Trump arrived at the G7 summit in France, touting a preliminary deal to end the Iran war. He suggested he would also seek to end hostilities in Ukraine and Lebanon. Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron and expressed optimism about the Iran agreement, stating it would bring success to the world and benefit the Middle East by lowering oil prices and boosting the stock market. His arrival comes amid G7 partners' wariness of his geopolitical actions, including tariff threats against France and questioning of NATO. Despite relief over the Iran deal, unease persists regarding Trump's other statements and actions.

President Donald Trump is heading to the G7 summit in France following an announcement of an agreement intended to end the U.S. war with Iran. The deal, which was reached after days of negotiations and amidst recent escalations between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the agreement would lead to the U.S. ending its blockade, though Iran indicated its closure of the strait would continue until the deal is officially signed. Details of the agreement remain scarce, but it is expected to involve pre-implementation discussions and technical talks on Iran's nuclear program, potentially including sanctions relief and economic incentives for Tehran. The summit will also address the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited to participate.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an interim peace deal on Friday in Geneva, Switzerland, aimed at ending a nearly four-month conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump announced the deal's completion, authorizing the toll-free opening of the Strait and the removal of the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The conflict, which began on February 28 in response to US and Israeli attacks, has resulted in thousands of deaths and economic disruption. While the deal calls for an immediate and permanent termination of military operations, key tensions like Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief are deferred to future technical talks. International reactions have been cautiously welcoming, though uncertainties remain regarding the deal's implementation and potential risks.

Asian nations are experiencing a mix of relief and wariness regarding a US-Iran peace deal, set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday, mediated by Pakistan. The agreement aims to end over three months of conflict in the Gulf, lift the US blockade on Iran, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil chokepoint. This waterway is vital for energy-importing Asian economies, as it handled approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily in 2024, representing 20% of global consumption. While the deal promises immediate relief, regional leaders are awaiting confirmation of the Strait's reopening and a subsequent easing of oil prices. Analysts suggest that the agreement's long-term success will depend on its ability to navigate ongoing nuclear talks and persistent geopolitical distrust.

Asian stock markets surged on Monday following the announcement of a tentative deal to end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Benchmarks in Tokyo and Seoul saw gains exceeding 5%, while oil prices dropped over $4 per barrel. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the initial agreement and authorized the end of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iran also confirmed the deal, with implementation expected after a signing ceremony in Switzerland on Friday. Broader negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program are slated to continue for the next 60 days. This development offers significant relief to global markets that have been volatile since the conflict began in late February, though experts caution that oil prices may take months to stabilize.

President Trump announced a deal concerning Iran, which he presented as a positive development, particularly in relation to energy prices. The article suggests this deal could help alleviate economic strain on Americans caused by higher energy costs and their ripple effects. However, the success of the deal remains uncertain, with potential risks highlighted, such as Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz if Israel launches new military operations in Lebanon, which could jeopardize the global economy. The article notes that falling petrol prices could be a tangible sign of economic improvement for Americans and potentially ease political pressure on Republicans ahead of the midterm elections, as public approval of Trump's handling of the economy is currently low.

The US and Iran have announced a framework peace deal to tentatively end their 15-week conflict, with an agreement expected to be signed this week. The deal includes a 60-day period for intensive technical talks on contentious issues like Iran's nuclear program, and Iran's deputy foreign minister stated they will seek sanctions relief. Donald Trump announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the US naval blockade. Hardliners in Iran expressed anger over the deal's perceived lack of guarantees on sanctions and compensation. Israel stated its forces will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza indefinitely.

The United States and Iran have reached a tentative deal to end over 100 days of war, according to statements from US President Donald Trump and Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi. The agreement, brokered with Pakistan's mediation, is set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday. Key aspects of the deal include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days under Iranian arrangements, allowing for toll-free shipping. Additionally, the US is reportedly set to release $12 billion in frozen assets to Iran. Negotiations are ongoing regarding Iran's uranium enrichment, with a potential 15 or 20-year suspension being discussed. Israel has not yet commented on the agreement.

A new US-Iran deal is set to be signed, aiming to restart nuclear talks in Geneva. The article argues this deal largely returns the situation to its pre-war state, despite a "feckless war of choice" initiated by the US and Israel. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and irrevocably changed Iran, strengthening its military at the expense of civilian governance. Donald Trump is claiming credit for resolving issues his war created, such as the Strait of Hormuz closure, but the article notes ambiguities remain regarding Iran's "service fees" and frozen assets. The deal also faces challenges from Israel's stance on the conflict with Hezbollah and internal political pressures in both the US and Iran, while the core nuclear dispute remains unresolved.

US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that the US was poised to sign a new agreement with Iran that day, aiming to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif indicated Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing within 24 hours, followed by technical talks. However, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson expressed caution, suggesting the signing would not occur the next day but might happen in the coming days. Meanwhile, pro-government rallies continued in Iran, with some protesters expressing opposition to an agreement with the US. Trump also discussed efforts to resolve the Iran conflict with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The United States and Iran are reportedly close to signing the first stage of a peace deal to end a conflict now in its 107th day. US President Donald Trump stated the agreement could be signed as early as Sunday, with a post on his Truth Social platform indicating the Strait of Hormuz would immediately reopen to all traffic upon signing. However, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has downplayed this optimism, stating the signing will not occur on Sunday and an exact date is undetermined. Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, expressed continued resolve for "final victory," while President Masoud Pezeshkian highlighted Iran's unity in forcing a ceasefire during a recent 12-day war. Iran's Foreign Minister indicated the proposed agreement includes 14 points, with the first being the lifting of US blockades on Iranian ports and an end to hostilities across all fronts.

The US claims a deal to end the war with Iran could be signed as early as Sunday, with President Trump stating it would extend the current ceasefire for 60 days and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran disputes this timeline, suggesting the signing will occur in the "coming days" and that the initial agreement, a memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan, will focus on ending the war and not discuss nuclear issues. While Trump has shared details of the agreement, including Iran's commitment to never acquire nuclear weapons, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson indicated caution due to the other party's instability. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expects the agreement to be finalized within 24 hours, followed by electronic signing and technical talks. There is ambiguity regarding the exact timing and method of signing, with reports of preparations for a physical ceremony now replaced by talk of an electronic signing.

President Trump announced on Saturday that the US is poised to sign a new agreement with Iran on Sunday, which he claims will prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Trump stated that Iran "no longer want a Nuclear Weapon, nor will they have one." He also mentioned an "ultimate alternative" if the deal is not signed. While Pakistan's Prime Minister indicated an electronic signing within 24 hours, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson advised caution, stating the signing would not occur on Sunday. The proposed deal, according to various sources, could involve reopening the strait, lifting a US naval blockade, and subsequent negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, though details and timelines differ significantly between US and Iranian accounts.

United States President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social account that an initial agreement to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed the following day. This statement contradicts an earlier announcement by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who stated that a memorandum of understanding would not be signed on Sunday and that a signing could occur "in the coming days." Both sides have indicated a deal is close, but have diverged on details and timelines. Trump claimed the deal would open the Strait of Hormuz, prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and involve no money exchange. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the initial memorandum as a launch point for future negotiations.

President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end fighting between the US and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, which he stated would reopen the Strait of Hormuz to all. This announcement came as Iran's foreign ministry expressed caution, stating that an exact signing date had not been decided but indicated it would not be on Saturday. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, also confirmed the deal was expected within 24 hours and preparations for electronic signing were underway. Trump further mentioned a plan to address Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles at an appropriate time. He also issued a warning about an "ultimate alternative" if the situation did not resolve smoothly.

The United States and Iran are reportedly close to a deal to end the ongoing war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Pakistan's Prime Minister stating it could be finalized within 24 hours. This potential breakthrough follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Key aspects of the emerging agreement include finalizing terms for Iran's nuclear program within 60 days, which involves removing enriched uranium, and reopening the vital shipping lane. The deal is also expected to include the phased lifting of sanctions on Iran and the release of frozen assets. However, the status of Lebanon and a potential ceasefire there remains unclear, with Iran insisting on its inclusion in any agreement.

As Iran and the US approach a potential deal to end a recent conflict, Tehran is commemorating the anniversary of a 12-day war with Israel in June 2025. This past year has been bloody for Iran, with government figures reporting over 3,468 deaths in the current conflict with the US and Israel, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian authorities assert that assassinations and strikes have not deterred their resolve, portraying their losses as a necessary struggle against foreign domination. Despite significant casualties, Iran claims a superior position, having survived two wars and disrupted global energy markets by controlling the Strait of Hormuz. Hardliners are reportedly criticizing the terms of the potential US-Iran agreement, which may address frozen funds, the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran's nuclear program.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that an initial deal to end a Middle Eastern war would be signed on Sunday, with the Strait of Hormuz to be immediately reopened. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman stated that the signing would not occur on Sunday, though a memorandum of understanding could be signed in the coming days. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that both sides had agreed on a peace deal framework and that Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing on Sunday, followed by technical talks. Iran's spokesman cautioned against definitive statements on the signing date due to the other side's hesitation.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that a "final, agreed upon text of the peace deal" between the US and Iran has been reached, stating that peace is closer than ever. Both US and Iranian officials cautioned against media speculation on the agreement's terms, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicating a deal is "never been closer." A senior US official confirmed they are "very close" to a deal involving significant sanctions relief and unfreezing of Iranian assets in exchange for Iran dismantling its nuclear program and handing over nuclear material, with sanctions relief contingent on Iranian compliance. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated relevant institutions are in the "final stages of summarising the text of the understanding." This diplomatic development follows recent US-Iran strikes and comes after weeks of alternating threats and indications of a potential ceasefire agreement.

Iran and Pakistan state a deal to end fighting is "never been closer," echoing a similar sentiment from US President Donald Trump. Iran's conditions for final negotiations include the release of half its frozen assets, suspension of oil sanctions, and lifting of a naval blockade, alongside ending the Israeli conflict with Hezbollah. From the US perspective, the deal requires Iran to dismantle its nuclear program and destroy nuclear material. A senior US official stated no funds would be released until Iran meets US demands, including opening the Strait of Hormuz and ceasing funding for terrorist groups. US Vice-President JD Vance clarified that economic benefits would only flow to Iran and the region if Iran meets its obligations. The Pakistani prime minister acknowledged misinformation campaigns aiming to sabotage the peace deal.

Prospects for a US-Iran peace deal remain uncertain due to conflicting claims from both sides. President Trump initially suggested a preliminary agreement was imminent but later expressed frustration, calling Iran "dishonorable." Iranian state media denied a deal was fully agreed upon, while Pakistan's Prime Minister claimed a final text had been reached. A senior US official indicated an 80-85% chance of an agreement within days, mentioning economic rewards for Iran and relief of sanctions. However, significant disagreements persist, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the terms of Iran's nuclear program and frozen assets.

President Trump has indicated that an agreement to end the conflict with Iran is nearing finalization. This statement follows his decision to cancel planned military strikes against Iran. The article does not specify when this agreement is expected to be finalized or provide details about its terms. The context suggests a potential de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran, with the President expressing optimism about an imminent resolution.

U.S. and Iranian officials indicate they are close to an agreement to end their war, with a senior U.S. official stating the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying Iran's nuclear material and dismantling its nuclear program. Regional officials suggest the emerging deal will facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, phased lifting of sanctions, and release of frozen Iranian assets. This breakthrough follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. The war, which began on February 28, has significantly disrupted oil and natural gas shipments from the Persian Gulf. While a fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, President Trump has expressed optimism about a deal, though he also issued a warning to Iranian officials. Israel is not a party to the negotiations but maintains that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons.

President Donald Trump has denied reports of leaked Iran ceasefire terms, calling them "fake news" and "dishonorable." He stated on Truth Social that the published terms had no relation to what was agreed upon in writing. This statement comes amidst ongoing efforts to reach a more lasting end to the war launched by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. Trump had previously indicated a deal was approved and could be signed soon. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested an "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding" for a ceasefire was close to finalization, urging against speculation on terms until they are officially announced. The Iranian state news agency IRNA had published what it described as seven main points of the deal, reportedly showing little Iranian compromise on key issues.

As a potential Iran-US ceasefire agreement nears, Gulf states are prompted to reassess their long-term security arrangements. The recent war on Iran, initiated by the US and Israel, has exposed vulnerabilities in the existing US-Gulf security model, with Gulf nations hosting US facilities becoming targets of Iranian attacks. Despite relying on US forces for security, their presence has made them targets, highlighting the need for new solutions as Iran remains a regional neighbor. The conflict has also impacted Gulf economies, particularly those reliant on the Strait of Hormuz, encouraging new thinking on economic and security strategies. This situation may lead Gulf states to consider engagement with Iran rather than continued confrontation.