mohammad bagher ghalibaf

Questions are mounting over Supreme Leader Khamenei's direct involvement in Iran's ongoing US negotiations, with reports citing "serious ambiguities" about coordination. This uncertainty follows trips by Iranian officials and a reluctance to hold talks in Tehran or Pakistan, fueling speculation about who is directing the diplomatic process amid heightened Gulf tensions and ongoing clashes.

US President Donald Trump has signaled openness to renewed peace talks with Iran, a shift from his previous threats of military action. Saudi Arabia welcomed this diplomatic approach. Iran's chief negotiator, however, warned of retaliation, viewing the US stance as an attempt to reignite conflict.

Iranian authorities held mass public weddings in Tehran for couples who signed up to a state-sponsored scheme declaring their readiness to sacrifice their lives in the war against the US and Israel. Those involved had signed up, according to Iranian media, for the so-called "self-sacrifice" scheme (janfada in Persian) where people pledged to put their lives on the line in the war by, for example, forming human chains outside power stations.

The US and Iran are reportedly nearing a 60-day ceasefire extension, with mediators working on an interim deal. This agreement could pave the way for broader talks on Iran's nuclear program and regional security, including the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and phased sanctions relief for Tehran.

Iran's armed forces are prepared to retaliate after President Trump rejected Tehran's ceasefire proposal, escalating regional tensions. The dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route, has already caused significant energy supply shocks and threatens global food security, with the UN warning of a potential humanitarian crisis.

For the first time in 23 years, the U.S. has three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, accompanied by 12 ships and 15,000 soldiers. This significant military presence signals readiness for renewed conflict should the fragile ceasefire with Iran collapse. The deployment occurs amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and Iran's reblocking of the Strait of Hormuz.

As US President Trump returns from China, pressure mounts over Iran. Top aides are reportedly preparing options for renewed military action against Tehran if diplomacy falters, including intensified bombing and potential Special Operations deployments. Iran, meanwhile, signals readiness for conflict, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global oil prices.

Iran's chief negotiator insists Washington must accept Tehran's peace plan, warning of continued failure otherwise. President Trump, however, deemed Iran's response 'unacceptable,' escalating tensions. The ongoing conflict has triggered an energy shock, spiking oil prices and threatening global supply chains. Fighting also persists in Lebanon, with Hezbollah vowing to make the battlefield 'hell' for Israel.

Iran is betting it can outlast President Trump's term in high-stakes negotiations, employing brinkmanship and economic pain tolerance. Analysts warn this strategy, centered on weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz, risks escalating into renewed war if Iran overplays its hand.

US President Donald Trump shared a modified map renaming the Strait of Hormuz as the "Strait of Trump," following claims that a naval blockade against Iran could last for months. This development occurs as Iran rejects US claims about economic damage and criticizes the blockade strategy, with its parliament speaker calling the advice "junk."

A secret letter from senior Iranian officials warning of economic collapse and urging nuclear negotiations with the US has reportedly exposed deep divisions within Tehran's leadership. Despite public displays of unity and denials of internal strife, the leak has sparked a political firestorm, with legal threats issued against those who disclosed the classified document.

Senior US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are heading to Pakistan for crucial talks with Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi to revive negotiations amid escalating regional tensions. The diplomatic initiative aims to address Tehran's nuclear program and ease global market volatility. Despite overtures, the situation remains volatile with ongoing conflicts impacting vital shipping lanes.

US Vice President JD Vance is heading to Islamabad for crucial talks with Iran, aiming to avert a looming conflict as a fragile ceasefire nears its end. Washington has warned of renewed bombing if no agreement is reached, though a deadline extension is possible if progress is seen. Iran's participation was delayed by internal pressure, but approval was eventually granted.

Donald Trump declared himself "The Peace President," claiming to have settled eight wars while simultaneously issuing stern warnings of military action against Iran if ongoing negotiations fail. He highlighted potential progress in West Asia, including a reported ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, though Iran disputed claims about the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump lauded Israel as a "great ally," highlighting its courage and loyalty amidst escalating Middle East tensions. Meanwhile, Iran's parliamentary speaker indicated ongoing, yet incomplete, negotiations with the US. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with clashes persisting despite a fragile truce and concerns over the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran is planning to implement new transit fees to regulate ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz, requiring prior coordination with Iranian authorities for passage. While "friendly" vessels will be permitted, "hostile military vessels" from the US and Israel will be denied entry. Iran asserts its sole control over the strait's management and security.

Iran has sharply criticized the EU's stance on Strait of Hormuz transit rules, accusing Brussels of hypocrisy and double standards. Tehran asserts its right to regulate passage, citing self-defense against potential aggression. The EU, however, insists on free passage and warns against transit fees, offering maritime support to ensure open routes amid escalating regional tensions.

The US has reportedly set two conditions for upcoming peace talks with Iran in Pakistan: the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with reciprocal measures, and the Iranian delegation needing full authority from the Revolutionary Guard. These demands follow a previous instance where officials reportedly hindered negotiations. Both nations are expected to resume discussions soon.