Iran-US deal still out of reach despite heightened diplomatic efforts
Summary
Iran and the United States remain far from a deal despite intensified diplomatic efforts, with Tehran saying its conditions must be met before any progress on reopening Hormuz or restarting nuclear talks. The exchanges come amid US strikes, claims of a downed American drone, and wider regional talks involving Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan.
Key Points
- A senior Iranian official said Iran and the US are still far from a deal, despite intensified mediation efforts.
- The US carried out strikes on Qeshm island, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they shot down a US MQ-9 drone near the Strait of Hormuz.
- Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the ball was in the US court after Tehran gave a strong response to Washington.
- Iranian and Saudi officials are also pursuing regional security talks as fighting and Houthi attacks continue across the region.
